luxury safari lodges south africa

Luxury Safari Lodges in South Africa

South africa’s best luxury safari accommodation.

Looking for the best luxury Safari lodges in South Africa ? There aren’t many travel experiences that come close to spending time in the African bush spotting wildlife on safari.

And if you’re looking for luxurious safari lodges and super-indulgent places from which to take it all in for a night or two, you could do a lot worse than check yourself into one of the luxury safari lodges in South Africa below.

There is no shortage of luxury safari lodges on offer in South Africa and we haven’t tried them all, so we’ve asked travel bloggers from around the world to help us out, and nominate their favourite luxury South African safari lodges.

The below list is made up of travel blogger nominations, plus lodges we’ve stayed at ourselves and can vouch for as providing ultimate safari luxury.

If you find that they’re a little over budget, find out how to organise your own cheap safari holiday .

So read on below for our collection of the most indulgent South African luxury safari lodges:

Luxury safari lodges in South Africa…

Nottens Bush Camp

Sabi Sands, South Africa

If you are looking for a really special stay during your safari in South Africa, you should consider Nottens Bush Camp in Sabi Sand Reserve. It is one of the most luxurious safari lodges in South Africa.

The lodge has, unlike many others, no fence and no electricity so you are really staying in the bush (in one of the nine exclusive, private suites).

A guard brings you to your room after dark and we experienced why they do so. One night we almost stumbled over a hyena on our way to our room.

We were so shocked and happy that we had a guard with us. Another night my parents woke up and heard a strange noise in front of their room.

They got out of bed to take a look and there was an elephant eating the plants that stood on their porch.

From your room in African style, you are overlooking an open area with a waterhole, so sit on your porch and enjoy the panoramic views and the wildlife passing by. You will see zebra, elephants, antelopes, and many other animals pass by.

Nottens Bush Camp is one of the original game lodges in South Africa and is known for its highly experienced rangers. and the area is great for spotting leopards.

This family-owned lodge goes the extra mile. After our first safari, we entered our room. All the candles and lanterns were burning, the bathtub was filled, rose leaves everywhere and a bottle of South African Vonkelwijn (champagne) was waiting for us.

In the evening all the guests are sitting at a big table to share the most thrilling stories about their safari.

They organize two game drives a day. One at 05.30 in the morning and one at 15.30 in the afternoon. In between those safaris you can relax beside the pool or enjoy a massage at the Nature Spa.

Sabi Sands is also home to Sabi Sabi Bush Lodge which is one of the most family-friendly safari lodges in South Africa .

Phinda Mountain Lodge

Phinda Game Reserve, South Africa

Phinda Game Reserve , in KwaZulu Natal, is home to some of the most beautiful, luxurious lodges in South Africa.

The best by far is Mountain Lodge. As the name says, this is located in such a way as to afford beautiful views across the bushveld to panoramic mountains.

The lodge is blissfully isolated on top of a hill. Once there, you will walk to the common areas where you will find the dining area, where a decadent breakfast and lunch, as well as afternoon tea are offered every day.

So much care is taken in the selection of the ingredients that you even have a choice of several types of coffee and roasts. The common area is also where the bar is located, with a seating area directly facing the mountains, for incredible views.

On the way to your room, you will find the beautiful pool and the spa, perfect for a relaxing afternoon – before you drive away on one of the game drives.

Rooms are incredibly comfortable, with large beds with a pillow menu; a sitting area with a fridge and all sorts of drinks and snacks.

There is a deck with a plunge pool – a favorite of local wildlife which is free to roam the grounds. It is not uncommon to spot nyalas and at times even elephants drinking from the pool!,

There is also a very spacious bathroom with a large shower and a Victorian-style bathtub.

At Phinda Mountain Lodge you will feel welcome, pampered and you will be able to fully relax while enjoying nature and the unique wildlife of this part of the country.

Singita Sweni Lodge

• Kruger National Park, South Africa

Contributed by sustainable travel bloggers Oksana & Max from Drink Tea & Travel

Singita Sweni

Located in Kruger National Park,  Singita Sweni Lodge  epitomizes the definition of a lux eco-safari stay.

The lodge is located on 33,000 acres of exclusive concession land on the banks of the Sweni River. This meant that hippos, crocs, elephants, and other wildlife can often be spotted meandering past the lodge.

Singita Sweni Lodge offers an intimate setting far away from the crowds associated with Kruger National Park .

There are only seven large luxurious suites on-site and each one is designed to bring the outdoors in.

They have large floor-to-ceiling windows, big wooden decks, and modern decor with natural elements incorporated into the design.

For us, one of the highlights of staying at Singita Sweni was their strong focus on sustainability.

They have an ethos of “touching the earth lightly” and their efforts were visible in every element of our stay. All meals are crafted with seasonal produce and sourced from local suppliers.

Plus, Singita Sweni Lodge is involved in a number of conservation and social initiatives in the community. One such project was the creation of their solar power plant. Its implementation has meant the lodge can save close to 1,000 tonnes of carbon emissions a year.

Of course, we also loved the morning and afternoon game drives. We had many wonderful sightings of lions, giraffes, zebras, elephants, buffalos, hippos, waterbucks, and other antelopes.

Plus we came across the most unique sighting of them all – a unique white lion, spotted only in this part of Kruger National Park!

If you are looking into a safari in Africa we wouldn’t hesitate to recommend Singita Sweni Lodge for an eco-lux experience. It’s a truly one of a kind destination.

Zebra Hills Safari Lodge

Manyoni Private Game Reserve

Zebra Hills is nestled in the private game reserve of Manyoni in Zululand, and is a sure shot delight for wildlife enthusiasts.

Being part of a private reserve gives the lodge owners and guides a lot of flexibility in terms of game-watching and safari hours.

This is one of the highlights, alongside the spectacular zebra-themed decor in the bedrooms, common areas, bar, and dining room.

The perks of living in a private reserve are aplenty, but my favorite bit was enjoying traditional braai in the evenings whilst you wait for the lions to come for a refreshing sip of water in the adjoining water hole.

This is the only place where I have watched lions on foot. Yes, that’s right. The waterhole is just across the swimming pool/barbeque area and if you stay put, it is easy to spot a few thirsty beasts loitering around to quench their thirst.

With no restrictions on safari hours, the night safaris offered umpteen nocturnal sightings with our top game sightings of the day being three cheetah cubs on a kill followed by a charging black rhino.

Such sightings are a dream for true wildlife lovers and Zebra Hills, with its ultra-luxury sleeps and skilled naturalists, made our dream vacation come true.

Kwandwe Private Game Reserve

A male lion strolls the bush of Kwandwe Private Game Reserve, South Africa

Big 5 destination Kwandwe Private Game Reserve covers 54,000 acres of private wilderness area. The reserve includes 30 kilometers of the Great Fish River, meaning a diverse landscape and varied wildlife sightings.

The reserve has some great family-friendly safari options offering child-focused wildlife activities such as making plaster casts of animal footprints and visits to animal orphanages, to help make your safari more meaningful.

It is one of the best places to go on safari in South Africa with kids .

Accommodation at Kwandwe: There are four properties in the reserve with 22 beds in total, meaning not too many other people or safari trucks around when you’re doing your game drives. Melton Manor and Uplands Homestead are exclusive-use lodges for families or small groups. Find prices & book >>

Samara Private Game Reserve

A herd of Eland at Samara, South Africa, looking for danger

Set among wildlife-rich rivers, mountains, and open plains, luxury private game reserve Samara offers guests some of the most breathtaking landscapes in South Africa.

Home to a very successful cheetah regeneration program, the reserve gives a good chance of spotting these beautiful cats, alongside the big 5 and large herds of eland.

Accommodation at Samara: Samara offers two exclusive onsite lodges – the Karoo Lodge and Manor House. Find prices & book >>

Amakhala Game Reserve

Giraffe-spotting on a game drive

The Amakhala Game Reserve is an 18,000-acre joint conservation effort where a former farming area has been rewilded.

Wildlife likely to be encountered on game drives in the reserve includes the big five, as well as cheetah , giraffe , zebra, wildebeest, and plenty of antelope species.

Accommodation options: There are 10 owner-managed properties across the reserve, ranging from restored country homes to tented camps, ensuring there’s something for everyone.

An all-inclusive safari experience and a range of wildlife-focused activities are offered at each property. Find prices & book >>

Kariega Game Reserve

Three luxury safari lodges at Kariega, South Africa

Kariega is a family-owned and run big five reserve incorporating 10,000 hectares of pristine African wilderness and two large rivers – the Kariega and the Bushmans rivers – giving access to the sea.

The reserve offers abundant game viewing, and in addition to the big 5, game to spot at Kariega includes hippo, hyena, giraffe, zebra, wildebeest, eland, kudu, waterbuck and a variety of other antelope, as well as a myriad of bird species.

Kariega is a particularly family-friendly game lodge offering a daily children’s programme at the Kids on Safari center.

Accommodation at Kariega Game Reserve: The reserve offers five safari lodges at a variety of price points, though all are at the high end, with quality and service to match. Find prices & book >>

Shamwari Game Reserve

One of Shamwari’s waterside lodges

Big five reserve Shamwari prides itself on being both friendly (the name means “my friend” in Shona), and child-friendly.

Childminding services are available on request, along with a host of kid-specific activities to keep them occupied – including the conservation focussed ‘Kids on Safari’ program.

What’s particularly nice (and somewhat unusual) about Shamwari for young families is that children from four upwards are permitted on game drives. Just a 2-hour drive from Port Elizabeth, Shamwari is easily accessible.

Accommodation options: Shamwari has seven lodges and one explorer camp, each with a distinct vibe. From exclusive tranquillity, effortless family enjoyment, or the back-to-nature appeal of a luxury tented camp. Find prices & book >>

Tswalu Kalahari Game Reserve

The pool area at Tswalu, South Africa

Tswalu Kalahari is the largest privately owned game reserve in South Africa – 100,000 hectares located in the Southern Kalahari, close to the Botswana border.

Although the reserve is huge, visitor numbers are kept to just 30 at a time, with all guests enjoying a private guided experience to optimise their time there.

Aside from the excellent game drives, activities include horse riding, habituated meerkat colony walks, sleep-outs under the stars, and black rhino walking safaris.

Children of all ages are welcome, and for families, Tswalu makes for a truly unique and memorable (malaria-free!) safari experience.

Accommodation options: Accommodation is luxurious with a choice of two lodges, the secluded Tarkuni (a private home with 5 suites), and The Motse (a spacious lodge with nine suites). Find prices & book >>

Madikwe Game Reserve

Views of the bush from a Madikwe balcony

Located on the Botswana border a 3.5-hour drive from Johannesburg, Madikwe is a wild and remote reserve that’s home to the big five, and is famous for its thriving population of wild dog, as well as gemsbok, springbok, zebra, giraffe and over 340 species of birds.

It is a great option if you are looking for a safari in a non-malarial area .

Accommodation options: The reserve has a large selection of camps and lodges, including the lovely Jaci’s Lodges, Mateya Safari Lodge, Madikwe Safari Lodge, and Little Madikwe Hills. Find prices & book >>

The Ant Collection

Horseback safari at the Ant Collection, South Africa

Two family-owned and operated lodges – Ant’s Nest and Ant’s Hill – located in their own spectacular private game reserve.

The reserve is a real haven for animals (over 40 species) and people looking for a wonderful, malaria-free safari. As well as game drives, there’s horse riding, elephant safaris, and swimming available, amongst other activities.

Accommodation options: The Ant’s Nest and Ant’s Hill offer very family-friendly, luxurious accommodation that is intimate and homely. Find prices & book >>

Entabeni Safari Conservancy

Three of Entabeni’s rhinos grazing in front of a signature rocky outcrop

Entabeni means ‘place of the mountain’, a private reserve spread over five ecosystems including wetlands, grass plains, craggy escarpments, and cliffs.

Large animals such as elephants and rhinos are plentiful, along with leopards, cheetahs, and buffalo.

There’s a choice of activities other than game drives to keep you entertained, such as bush walks, sunset lake cruises, horse riding, and helicopter air safaris.

Children are welcome but must be six or over to join a game drive.

Accommodation options: Lodging includes Lakeside Lodge on the shores of Lake Entabeni and Wildside Safari Camp. Find prices & book >>

Leobo Private Reserve

Bush views from open lounge area at the Leobo lodge

Leobo Private Reserve  is encompassed by rugged rocks, mountains, bushveld savannah, rivers, gorges, and an abundance of wildlife.

It is one of only a handful of sole-use private reserves in Africa – allowing guests full access to the entire estate and all its facilities.

Teeming with plains game, as well as hippo, there’s also a wide array of activities for all ages including paintballing, quad bikes, shooting, fishing, and more.

Accommodation options: The lodge has luxury 9 chalets with views over the Palala valley – and a stunning swimming pool built into the side of the mountain.

It’s fully staffed and rented exclusively, so is perfect for families or groups of friends. Find prices & book >>

Mabalingwe Nature Reserve

Main Mabalingwe lodge at sunsetThe Mabalingwe biome , made up of 8,500 hectares of bushveld, provides wonderful game-viewing opportunities year-round.

The reserve is very family-friendly, and the rolling grasslands make game-viewing a breeze. Home to the big five, and also hippo, giraffe, hyena, and sable, the reserve has a variety of family and child-friendly activities to go alongside their day and night game drives.

Accommodation options: There are many types of accommodation available including chalets, campsites, and bush lodges. Find prices & book >>

Welgevonden Game Reserve & Marakele National Park

Drinks time at Welgevenden’s pool area

Adjoining areas Welgevonden Game Reserve  and Marakele National Park are in the process of removing their fences to allow the game to roam in a larger area.

Both parks are home to the big five, as well as 30 more mammal species and over 250 species of birds.

Marakele is more for intrepid safari-goers than luxury safari seekers – you’ll definitely need your own four-wheel-drive car, whilst Welgevonden as a private game reserve has a focus on high-end luxury.

Accommodation options: Are plentiful and varied inside the reserve, with a host of luxurious and extremely hospitable lodges and camps to choose from. Find prices & book >>

That’s your lot for luxury safari lodges in South Africa. Have you stayed at one of these lodges, or know of any others that should be on the list? We’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments section below.

Top countries for safaris

• Botswana safaris
• Kenya safaris
• Namibia safaris
• South Africa safaris
• Tanzania safaris
• Uganda safaris

Safari basics

• Safari animals
• How to find the right safari company
• When to go on safari
• What to take on safari
• Safari clothing – what to wear
• Safari rules & etiquette
• Wildlife spotting tips

Most read articles

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• 10 Fascinating African tribes
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• 17 Epic hybrid animals
• The world’s ugliest animals
• Why are flamingos pink?

Africa’s best game reserves

• Chobe National Park, Botswana
• Etosha National Park, Namibia
• Masai Mara National Reserve, Kenya
• Moremi Game Reserve, Botswana
• Okavango Delta, Botswana
• Serengeti National Park, Tanzania

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14 Top-Rated Luxury Safari Lodges in South Africa

Written by Becca Blond and Karen Hastings Updated Jan 19, 2024 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Imagine sitting in an open-topped Land Cruiser on a morning safari drive, watching the sun rise beyond a line of elephants clomping their way through the bush. Or falling asleep to the not-so-distant roar of a lion from a mosquito net-draped bed in the most luxurious canvas tent you've ever slept in. Both are experiences you'll likely encounter while staying at one of South Africa's most exclusive luxury safari lodges. These are some of the very best resorts in Africa.

South Africa has safari lodges in national parks and private reserves scattered across much of the country. But many of the most luxurious lodges are in the private game reserves bordering Kruger National Park , such as Sabi Sands, with abundant wildlife and few other tourists. Expert guides and trackers take you right to the action in open-air safari vehicles, with regular sightings of the Big Five (lions, leopards, elephants, rhinos, and buffalos), as well as an astounding diversity of other wildlife.

Luxury safari lodges are also found in other parts of South Africa including the malaria-free Madikwe Game Reserve at the edge of the Kalahari Desert in South Africa's northwest on the border with Botswana. The Northern Cape and KwaZulu Natal provinces are also home to fantastic lodges.

Remote and intimate, these exclusive and eco-conscious lodges offer a true small-group luxury wilderness experience, with exceptional service. It's a good idea to split your time between two or more lodges in different areas to maximize the diversity of game viewing. Families will be pleased to learn that many of these camps welcome children.

Note that all of these safari lodges are all-inclusive . Rates include your meals and game drives.

1. Singita Sabi Sand

2. royal malewane, 3. ulusaba rock lodge and safari lodge, 4. singita sweni and lebombo, 5. londolozi, 6. lion sands, 7. jaci's lodges, 8. sabi sabi, 9. &beyond ngala safari lodge, 10. tswalu kalahari reserve, 11. cheetah plains, 12. jamala madikwe, madikwe game reserve, 13. &beyond phinda vlei lodge, 14. shamwari private game reserve.

Bordering Kruger, in Sabi Sand Game Reserve, the oldest of South Africa's private reserves, Singita Sabi Sand oozes safari chic. You can choose from three different luxury lodges here: Boulders, Ebony, and Castleton.

Singita Boulders Lodge , on the banks of the Sand River, is one of the world's best lodges. Floor-to-ceiling glass windows encase each luxurious suite, with decor inspired by the tones and textures of nature. Think rustic elegance, with tribal motifs, stone accents, sculptural tree trunk supports, and open-air rooms that bring the outdoors in.

Equally elegant, Singita Ebony Lodge has a tented camp feel with exposed thatch roofs and beige canvas accents. Each of the 12 suites here come with their own private plunge pool, and the two-bedroom suites are perfect for families.

Overlooking a water hole, Singita Castleton recalls a country farmhouse with communal living areas, albeit one with a swimming pool, tennis courts, and spa treatment rooms. Guests here sleep in separate cottages sprinkled around the grounds, and children of all ages are welcome.

The property covers 45,000 acres of wilderness with a high concentration of game, including the Big Five, and frequent close-up leopard sightings.

As well as the twice daily game drives, the lodge offers mountain biking safaris, walking safaris, visits to local villages, and archery for those so inclined. A fitness center with beautiful bush views is also on-site.

In Thornybush Game Reserve, bordering Kruger National Park, Royal Malewane is not only one of South Africa's best safari lodges, it's one of the top all-inclusive resorts in the world .

A classic old-world feel sets the scene here for a safari that could come right out of Hemingway's journal. Animals roam freely around camp, and this particular reserve, north of Sabi Sand, is known for its spectacular game viewing and abundance of lions.

Decorated in an eclectic colonial style, the eight air-conditioned suites (including two separate two-bedroom Royal Suites ) exude a seemingly effortless elegance. Jewel-toned oriental rugs cloak the floors, thatch peeks out between ceiling beams, private plunge pools beckon on expansive decks with views over the bush (and sometimes visiting elephants), and you can wash off the African dust in private open-air showers.

Africa House, a six-bedroom, exclusive-use villa with a private chef, is also available for families and groups.

Expert teams of trackers and guides scour the bush to bring you Big Five action. When you're not watching animals, you can enjoy a pampering treatment at the award-winning bush spa , or work out at the fully equipped gym.

Many guests like to combine a stay here with one of the lodges farther south, such as Singita Boulders Lodge, but book as early as possible, as Royal Malewane often fills up a year in advance.

Children aged 10 years and older are welcome in the luxury suites, and children of all ages are welcome in the Royal Suites and Africa House.

Owned by Sir Richard Branson, Ulusaba Rock Lodge and Safari Lodge lie in spectacular locations at the Western end of Sabi Sand. Game viewing is excellent, with all the Big Five in abundance, as well as wild dog, baboons, impala, cheetah, and many species of birds.

Ulusaba offers unique accommodations in two dramatic settings: Ulusaba Rock Lodge sits high atop a koppie (rocky peak), with breathtaking views over the sweeping wilderness below. Its conical, thatched roofs jutting up from the peak of the koppie evoke a whimsical African-style palace.

Each of the eight rooms is uniquely decorated with textural tribal elements and natural materials, and some are split between multiple levels and come with their own private infinity pools. Rock Lodge also includes deluxe Cliff Lodge suites , which are ideal for families. Book them both, and you score your own private chef, safari vehicle, spa, and gym.

Ulusaba Safari Lodge nestles in a canopy of trees on a dry riverbank, where a parade of animals wanders past to drink at a nearby waterhole. At Safari Lodge, some of the rooms are built like treehouses, perched high on stilts among the leaves. Rope swing bridges connect some of the rooms to the common areas, creating a sense of adventure as soon as you step out the door.

Spa treatments, tennis, workouts at the gym, and pool time fills the post-safari hours. Guided walking safaris are also available, and guests with a social conscience also have the option of volunteering at local schools and villages.

Children aged 12 years and older are welcome at Safari Lodge, and kids of all ages are welcome at Rock Lodge.

Near the border with Mozambique, Singita Sweni Lodge and Singita Lebombo Lodge are, like their sister lodges in Sabi Sand, eco-sensitive and extraordinarily beautiful.

The lodges occupy a 33,000-acre exclusive concession on the southeastern side of Kruger National Park, meaning the density of guests here is extremely low. The area spans four different ecological zones, creating fantastic opportunities for diverse game viewing. All the Big Five are in abundance, as well as four big prides of lion.

The two lodges here occupy spectacular locations. Suspended in the canopy along the Sweni River, Singita Sweni Lodge is a series of light-filled luxury treehouses wrapped in glass for prime viewing of the animals along the river below. The interior tones and textures blend seamlessly with the environment, and expansive decks jut out into the wilderness. The main lodge includes an inviting pool, spa, gym, and the Singita Boutique & Gallery.

Perched on a mountain above the N'Wanetsi River, and inspired by the eagles' nests found up high here, Singita Lebombo Lodge overlooks the magnificent wilderness below. It has a contemporary yet textural and earthy feel and offers 13 open-plan suites and a fully-staffed villa on the riverbank. Perfect for groups, the villa comes with two interlinked two-bedroom suites that share a pool and kitchen.

Other highlights at Lebombo include a panoramic roof terrace with a library, an espresso bar, help-yourself deli, inviting pool, and expansive indoor/outdoor decks.

As with all of Singita's lodges, conservation is paramount, and the company strives to leave the lightest possible footprint on the Earth. Children 10 years and older are welcome.

Set along the Sand River in Sabi Sand Game Reserve, family-run Londolozi has welcomed guests for almost a century and is one of the most famous safari lodges in South Africa. It lies within the Greater Limpopo Transfrontier Park, a wilderness area of six million acres that also incorporates Kruger National Park.

White rhino and lion live here in some of the highest concentrations found anywhere in Africa, but Londolozi is best known for its leopards, one of Africa's most elusive predators. Londolozi is a Zulu word meaning, "protector of all living things," so it's not surprising that conservation is a focus here, with features like open-air, electric safari vehicles.

You can choose between five different camps, all of which boast prestigious Relais & Châteaux status. The adults-only Londolozi Private Granite Suites is the most luxurious, while Londolozi Tree Camp and the nostalgic and romantic Londolozi Pioneer Camp are not far behind. Stylish decor, abundant glass, large living rooms, spa-like baths, and private heated plunge pools, are typical features.

Londolozi Founders Camp , along the banks of the Sand River, and the venerable Londolozi Varty Camp are larger and more family-orientated with features like thatched roof bungalows, interlinked "skywalk" rooms, and private outdoor pools.

Besides game drives, other activities available here include walking safaris, yoga classes, massage therapies, and workouts at the fitness center.

Both of these camps, as well as Pioneer Camp, welcome children six years and older.

The only lodge with access to the perennial Sabie River, Lion Sands, in the Sabi Sand game reserve, offers a collection of sumptuous safari lodges, each with its own inspiration and style.

Game viewing is excellent in this game-rich area, and the lodge boasts one of only four master trackers in the world to help you find the best sightings.

A unique feature at Lion Sands is the opportunity for guests at the lodges to combine their visit with a romantic overnight stay, sleeping under the stars in one of their luxurious treehouses . Guests snuggle up in plush four-poster canopied beds on towers raised high above the wilderness.

Each of the luxurious Lion Sands lodges has a unique personality, from organic chic to mid-century modern, so you can choose a lodge that matches your style.

Lion Sands River Lodge is the largest, with 20 thatched rooms dressed in soothing textures and tones of creme and white.

Overlooking the Sabie River, the villas of Ivory Lodge are grounded in an eco-minded, mid-century-modern aesthetic, incorporating tribal touches and natural materials such as thatch, steel, wood, and sand. Light streams in through the walls of glass, and the two-bedroom Fish Eagle suite comes with its own private Land Rover, pool, spa, and gym.

Tinga Lodge on the Sabie River has a "contemporary colonial" theme, and Narina Lodge has a treehouse feel, with nine villas suspended high in the canopy and linked by raised walkways.

Typical features at all the lodges include personal butlers; luxury bathrooms, some with outdoor showers; sitting areas with fireplaces; and private pools.

Post-game-drive activities include pampering treatments at the Africology Spa, helicopter rides over the Blyde River Canyon, and trips to Hippo Pools.

Children aged 10 years and older are welcome here, but only select lodges offer babysitting services.

Jaci's Lodges in the spectacular Madikwe Game Reserve in South Africa's North-West Province are a collection of family-owned boutique properties that offer guests an intimate, highly personalized safari experience. Madikwe, which sits on the border with Botswana and the edge of the Kalahari in a malaria-free area, is known for its thriving wild dog population.

The second most endangered carnivore in Africa after Ethiopian wolves, seeing a wild dog on safari is a rare experience anywhere else in South Africa. But in Madikwe there are three hunting packs roaming the park, and it's not uncommon to see these enigmatic pups here.

If you don't have a DSLR camera with a wildlife photography-sized lens, don't worry. You can still capture the wild dogs and all the other animals (the park also has healthy lion and rhino populations) you see in crisp, close-ups by renting a Nikon from Jaci's for the duration of your trip (highly recommended).

Jaci's is comprised of two adjacent camps, each offering a slightly different sleeping experience .

At Jaci's Safari Lodge , there are six tented suites, including two that are suitable for a family or a small group of friends. The tents have thatched roofs, hardwood floors, and canvas side panels that can be completely rolled up. The interior design features bright African colors and patterns as well as bathrooms with soaking tubs and indoor and outdoor showers.

There are also two Starbed Suites at this camp. The lodge's newest builds, these have a more contemporary look and are a good choice for people who want to sleep within walls instead of the more exposed canvas tents. The suites are two-level affairs with the second level being an open-air rooftop deck where you can sleep in a proper king-sized bed under the stars.

Downstairs you'll find a second king bed in case you prefer sleeping indoors (or it rains). The Starbed Suites are especially popular with honeymooners and couples on romantic getaways .

Jaci's Tree Lodge is the adjacent property. Here you'll find eight treehouse suites built on stilts and connected by elevated walkways that offer fabulous views of the surrounding forest and glimpses of the Marico River. Guests here also have access to a hide for photographing animals without their knowledge and a public treehouse space with a hot tub facing an active waterhole.

As the name suggests, Sabi Sabi is also in the Sabi Sand game reserve, abutting the southwestern border of Kruger National Park. This area is famous for its diversity and density of wildlife, including the Big Five and up to 350 species of birds.

Each of the four separate lodges here exudes its own personality. Steeped in colonial charm, Sabi Sabi Selati Camp is the most romantic, with a style inspired by the movie, Out of Africa .

Family-friendly Sabi Sabi Bush Lodge and Little Bush Camp are more contemporary in feel. Bush Lodge has a children's center and spa, and at the intimate Little Bush Camp , each room comes with a private terrace and hot tub.

True to its name, the more minimalistic Sabi Sabi Earth Lodge has won accolades for its environmentally-sensitive design. It blends effortlessly with the surrounding landscapes, with plenty of neutral tones and sleek lines. All the lodges come with swimming pools, but Earth Lodge suites come with private plunge pools, and the lodge has its own library, art gallery, meditation garden, and spa.

Day and night safaris are available here, as well as walking safaris with experienced guides and trackers.

Children are welcome, though only those older than six years are allowed on game drives unless a private vehicle is reserved.

On a private game reserve inside Kruger National Park , &Beyond Ngala Safari Lodge offers superb Big 5 game-viewing and warm and welcoming staff members who treat guests like family.

Nostalgic safari elegance sets the tone in the 20 thatched-roof cottages. Bush views bleed into the interiors through floor-to-ceiling windows, and private verandahs offer popular spots to watch the passing parade of animals. Still can't tear yourself away from the wilderness views? Every room comes with an alfresco shower.

Families are welcome and are comfortably accommodated in three spacious cottages with interconnecting rooms, as well as in a family suite with a private swimming pool. Interactive kid-focused activities and childcare also provide parents with some alone time.

Besides twice-daily game drives and walking safaris, guests here can relax with a spa treatment; paddle in the pool; or sign up for a conservation experience, working directly with some of the wildlife.

Honeymooners should opt for a romantic evening in the magical Ngala Treehouse .

Eco-conscious guests will be pleased to know that &Beyond works collaboratively with local groups and communities on conservation initiatives and sustainable business practices.

Covering 1,000 square kilometers in the less-visited Kalahari region, family-friendly Tswalu is the largest private game reserve in South Africa. Conservation is key here, and the owners' mission is to restore newly acquired lands back to their natural existence and fund multiple conservation and community-minded projects.

Hauntingly beautiful landscapes of red sand, golden grass, and wind-sculpted acacia trees characterize this region, and the wildlife is uniquely adapted to the harsh environment. Among the many animals here are the magnificent black-maned Kalahari lion, endangered desert black rhino, meerkats, sable and roan antelopes, wild dogs, porcupines, aardvarks, aardwolves, honey badgers, and cheetah.

Safaris are tailored to each individual party, with no set schedule. Best of all, this lodge lies in a year-round malaria-free zone .

Adorned with natural earthy materials and an abundance of textural elements, the freestanding thatched villas blend beautifully with their surrounding environment. You can choose from two locations: The Motse , a "village" of nine air-conditioned luxury suites overlooking a waterhole at the foot of the Korannaberg Mountains, and Tarkuni , the owners' family home, with five impeccably furnished suites, a pool, personal host, and a private five-star chef.

At Motse , the cottages mix modern comforts with an African feel. Thatched roofs and walls of stone, red clay, and desert sand echo the surrounding environment. Other features include spacious bedrooms with open fireplaces, indoor/outdoor showers, and large decks with sweeping vistas of the vast desert. Three two-bedrooms cottages, are perfect for families, with large living rooms and two bathrooms.

At the communal area here, you can take a dip in the infinity pool, curl up with a book from the library, or enjoy a relaxing spa treatment. Other things to do include hikes to nearby attractions such as ancient rock art; horseback safaris; and sleeping under the stars at The Malori, a raised platform with weather-proof blinds.

Tswalu hosts children of all ages, and offers a nanny service and Junior Ranger program to keep the little ones engaged.

Staying at Tswalu, with its contrasting landscapes and unique species of wildlife found only in this region, is a great complement to visiting the lodges near Kruger National Park.

In Sabi Sand Game Reserve, Cheetah Plains offers a sustainable, ultra-luxe safari experience catering to multi-gen families or groups of friends . This is the lodge to book if you want a very private and personalized holiday. There are just eight elegant sleek villas, each of which can accommodate up to eight people in four bedrooms and must be rented exclusively regardless of your group size .

These villas have a modern look with lots of glass window walls that are far removed from the canvas-tented camp vibe found at many lodges. All are luxuriously appointed with curated art collections, a chef's kitchen, indoor and outdoor living and dining spaces, and a private swimming pool on a large deck.

You'll be assigned a personal hospitality team upon check-in. This includes a personal chef, spa therapist, and expert guide and tracker that will be dedicated to your villa for the length of your stay, allowing for an extremely personalized experience.

Cheetah Plains also prides itself on being carbon-negative. Your twice daily game drives take place in electric Land Cruisers for a completely silent ride.

Set around a game-rich waterhole in South Africa's North West Province, Jamala Madikwe is known for its superb wildlife viewing, luxurious lodgings, and friendly staff.

It lies in the Madikwe Game Reserve , a malaria-free area along the Botswana border that once consisted mainly of cattle farms before it was transformed into a wildlife reserve in the early 90s.

Today, the reserve supports an incredible diversity of species due to the fact that it lies in an ecological transition zone, between the Kalahari and lowveld wilderness. Game drives regularly bring sightings of the Big Five, as well as brown hyena, zebra, giraffe, wildebeest, oryx, African wild dogs, and even the rare aardwolf.

Best of all, the lodge's orientation around the waterhole means you can enjoy a "Sofa Safari" here and watch all the action from the villas and common areas, without even leaving the camp.

Accommodation is in five air-conditioned, freestanding villas that blend a colonial feel with African artifacts. Typical features include four-poster netted beds, crisp linens, outdoor showers, spa-like indoor bathrooms, living rooms with fireplaces, dining areas, and expansive decks with rim-flow plunge pools.

When you're not out on game drives, you can enjoy a luxury treatment at the Royal Spa, look for wildlife from the watchtower perched above the waterhole, or relax at the main lodge with a book from the library.

In South Africa's diverse northeastern province of Kwazulu Natal, family-friendly &Beyond Phinda offers a winning combination of private and spacious villas, superb service, and fantastic Big Five game viewing. Cheetah and antelopes such as nyala are also plentiful here. This is one of several &Beyond lodges in Phinda Reserve, an area of rehabilitated farmland now brimming with wildlife.

Tucked amid trees on the edge of a vlei (wetland), the six freestanding thatched villas at &Beyond Phinda Vlei Lodge could easily be at home in Bali if it weren't for the parade of African animals wandering past.

Louvered windows and large glass doors slide open to create seamless indoor/outdoor living areas, and each villa has a sitting room with a fireplace and a rambling deck with a private plunge pool. Elephants sometimes come to drink from the pools, and antelope graze on the lush grass.

Walking safaris and river cruises are other fun ways to explore the wilderness.

One of the bonuses about choosing a safari at this lodge is that you can complement your bush experience with several day trip adventures, such as a scuba safari at Sodwana Bay, about an hour's drive away; swimming with whale sharks; a Zulu village tour; black rhino tracking; and visits to an endangered wild cats project.

Kids are welcome, and the lodge offers a fun children's program and special family safaris tailored to the ages of each child.

Considered one of South Africa's most successful private conservation initiatives, Shamwari Private Game Reserve is a favorite with celebrities and has hosted everyone from Brad Pitt to John Travolta and Tiger Woods.

Away from the main safari areas, it is located off the N2 in a malaria-free area of the Eastern Cape between the cities of Port Elizabeth and Grahamstown. It can be reached easily by private vehicle with just 7 kilometers of driving on a gravel road. If you prefer to arrive by plane, there is also a private airstrip.

One of South Africa's largest private game reserves, it is home to the Big Five as well as cheetah. The reserve hosts six luxury lodges , each of which offers a different style. Long Lee Manor is a newly redesigned lodge with elegant Edwardian-styled suites and a beautiful rim-flow swimming pool.

Sindile is Shamwari's newest luxury tented camp in a secluded locale. It has nine very posh, free-standing tents elevated above the surrounding bush that offer stunning views and dark night skies for stargazing. These tents are designed to leave as minimal of an environmental footprint as possible.

For something even more adventurous book Explorer Camp. Open only during the summer season (between October and May), the wilderness bush camp is located on a granite and basalt plateau and has lodging in tents that truly make you feel you are staying in the bush – expect to hear lots of animal sounds at night (the camp is, however, discreetly fenced for safety). Guests staying here do guided walking safaris that allow you to get up close and personal with wildlife.

Whichever accommodation you choose, expect twice-daily game drives led by guide and tracker teams that will get you very close to the animals. There are also spa treatments (extra fee) available at many of the lodges.

More on South Africa

The Best Luxury Safari Lodges in South Africa

When it comes to high-end lodgings, the best safari lodges in South Africa are a trifecta of luxury: outstanding architectural design, lavish amenities, and attentive, personalized service. When you arrive at any of our best lodges top picks, “exceptional” is the standard. Think: exclusive access to private tracts of unspoiled wilderness teeming with game, outstanding guides, gourmet fine dining, and wine cellars stocked with rare vintages. Ranging from three to 12 suites, each of these intimate properties offer joyfully secluded retreats into the South African veld . The only challenge is deciding where to lay your head.

The best safari lodges in The Greater Kruger

Kruger National Park is the largest national park in South Africa, spanning 7,523 square miles (roughly the size of Israel), but it’s just one part of The Greater Kruger , which includes outstanding private game reserves like Sabi Sand, Timbavati, and Thornybush, where you’ll find some of the best safari lodges in South Africa.           

Singita Boulders Lodge, Sabi Sand Game Reserve

At the ultra-luxurious Singita Boulders Lodge , guests are surrounded by the wild beauty of South Africa. There are just 12 exquisitely designed suites boasting glass walls, heated plunge pools, and private decks. Located along the Sand River’s boulder-strewn banks, the lodge offers guests the exclusive opportunity to explore Singita Sabi Sand Reserve and its 45,000 acres. In this untouched wilderness, you can encounter species like the Big Five, hyena, African wild dog, nyala, and reedbuck. After an exhilarating walking safari or game drive, mingle among fellow travelers at the Copper Bar, enjoy a personalized wine tasting in the cellar, or stay active in the fully equipped fitness center with its gorgeous bush views.

Highlights:

• Boulders is known for frequent sightings of elusive leopards.
• Secluded, glass-fronted suites offering river or bush views. 
• Visit the anti-poaching Sabi Sand Canine Unit for an interactive session.

Who it’s best for: Solo travelers, couples, and families with kids who want a private setting and many activities to choose from.

Dulini Leadwood Lodge, Sabi Sand Game Reserve

Dulini Leadwood Lodge is situated within the 160,000-acre private Sabi Sand Game Reserve. Shrouded by the canopy of a riverine forest at the confluence of the Sand and Mabrak rivers, it features just four lavish suites. Take in views of the pristine bushveld and granite boulders while relaxing in a modern suite where you can book a restorative massage. Spend your days exploring the awe-inspiring wilderness on bush walks and game drives, during which you can see the Big Five, antelope, African wild dog, and hyena. Relax beneath the stars while dining in the Boma or on the Jackalberry-shaded Treehouse Deck.

• Ultra private, exquisitely designed suites feature floor-to-ceiling windows and open-plan bathrooms.
• Shares a 31-mile unfenced boundary with Kruger National Park and maintains traversing rights with the western sector of Sabi Sand Game Reserve.
• Photo safaris: A partnership with Africa Photographic Services provides equipment rentals for Photographic Safaris in open-top vehicles with camera mounts and storage boxes. (Arrange in advance.)

Who it’s best for: Couples, honeymooners, and multi-generational exclusive-use.

Lion Sands Ivory Lodge, Sabi Sand Reserve

Constructed with natural materials and boasting an open design, you can immerse yourself in the untouched bush that surrounds you at the secluded Lion Sands Ivory Lodge . Featuring eight villas within the Sabi Sand Game Reserve, service is attentive, accommodating and detailed-focused, right down to the Champagne you prefer. From your private plunge pool, deck or lounge, soak in stunning views of the Sabie River. Enjoy guided bush walks and game drives to spot breathtaking wildlife from big cats to small birds.

• Private reserve spans 30,600 acres and is home to diverse and abundant wildlife, including endangered species like pangolin, African civet, and African wild dogs.
• Safaris have a six-guest limit per vehicle, enjoy traversing rights and make surprise stops at beautiful spots.
• A Signature Treehouse Experience lets you sleep under starlit skies.

Who it’s best for: Nature lovers, honeymooners, couples, and families who are looking for a luxurious adventure.

Sabi Sabi Earth Lodge, Sabi Sand Game Reserve

The award-winning and family-owned Sabi Sabi Earth Lodge is tucked into the surrounding landscape, making it one of the best safari lodges in South Africa to feel grounded in nature. Expect the unexpected on a walking safari or game drive to view wildlife like giraffe, hyena, and the Big Five, or go on a community tour to learn about the local people and their culture. When you aren’t exploring, take a refreshing swim in your private pool, dine in the subterranean wine cellar or feel stress melt away at Amani Spa, which features a Pango Cave and Zen meditation garden. 

• 12 architecturally stunning and impeccably decorated suites offer bushveld views and boast panoramic windows, each with a private deck and an outdoor lounge.  
• Day Bar offers a refreshing dining experience in ankle-deep water.
• Some of the finest guides and trackers in South Africa

Who it’s best for: Couples, honeymooners, and anyone who wants to support eco-tourism.

Cheetah Plains, Sabi Sand Game Reserve

Cheetah Plains Private Game Reserve offers an eco-luxury safari experience, with a focus on clean energy and conservation—ideal for travelers in search of the best luxury safaris in South Africa operating in an environmentally-friendly way. Located in the northeast portion of Sabi Sand Game Reserve, you won’t have to sacrifice comfort for sustainability. Here, you’ll find modern off-grid accommodation and electric Land Cruisers. Each of the three exclusive-use villas can accommodate up to eight people across four suites and feature shared living spaces. A hospitality team consisting of a host, spa therapist, field guide, culinary team, and tracker team will take care of everything from massages to bushveld dining.

• Just three exclusive villas, each with a chef’s kitchen, custom-designed wine gallery, and an outdoor boma area for dining.  
• Safari sightings include the Big Five, hyena, antelope, giraffe, and zebra, as well as endangered species like the honey badger, African wild dog, and ground hornbill. 
• Village visits are designed to teach you about the local Shangaan culture and its traditions.     

Who it’s best for: Families with kids, groups of friends, couples, and eco-conscious travelers. 

Saseka Tented Camp, Thornybush Reserve

Saseka Tented Camp is located in Thornybush Nature Reserve , which spans 37,000 acres. It’s also near the seasonal Monwana River, which attracts wildlife like waterbuck, kudu, blue wildebeest, impala, spotted genet, giraffe, and leopard. Guests stay in a luxurious tented suite that harkens back to those used by nineteenth-century safari-goers. Luxuriate in your own outdoor shower, pool or on a deck lounger while taking in the sights and sounds of the bush and riverbed. When you’re ready to emerge from your private retreat, head to the dining area and social lounge spaces to chat with fellow travelers.

• Nine spacious tented suites can accommodate two guests and feature glass doors and elevated views. 
• Thornybush Reserve is home to diverse wildlife, including the Big Five, hippo, zebra, warthog, and hyena.  
• Unique excursions include a personalized private vehicle safari, a three-hour walk along Immersive Guided Trails, and a visit to the Tango K9 Anti-Poaching Unit.  

Who it’s best for: Friends traveling together, honeymooners, and families in search of thrilling safari experiences.

Royal Malewane, Thornybush Reserve

At Royal Malewane in the Thornybush Reserve, you can choose from three safari lodges (Malewane Lodge, The Farmstead, and Waterside), each offering luxurious suites and villas. Main dining areas off all three overlook bustling waterholes so you can view wildlife while enjoying personalized menus serving gourmet cuisine and fine wine. We recommend feasting on savory meals under the stars at the Bush Tent. Explore the wilderness by land, water, and air alongside knowledgeable guides. In addition to game drives and walking trails, visitors can take a cruise on Blyde Dam or a helicopter ride to view Kruger from above. You can even participate in conservation activities to experience some of the ways experts help endangered species and habitats.  

• Specialized vehicles are spacious enough for photography equipment so you can capture awe-inspiring wildlife moments.
• Join conservationists for elephant tracking and rhino dehorning or support the APNR Ground-Hornbill Project and EWT Wild Dog Project.
• Tee off at Leopard Creek Country Club , considered one of the top golf courses in the country.

Who it’s best for: Couples, families, and travelers who want a lot of options when it comes to outdoor activities beyond game drives.

Tanda Tula Safari Camp, Timbavati Reserve

Located in the 131,000-acre Timbavati Private Nature Reserve, Tanda Tula Safari Camp overlooks the Nlharalumi riverbed. With a focus on responsible tourism, this camp supports community development programs like the Tanda Tula Adult Literacy Class and conservation projects like rhino protection. Collaborating with architect Nick Plewman, the property reopened in mid-2023 with improved infrastructure that creates a lighter footprint. Accommodations boast a plunge pool, outdoor shower and outdoor seating.

• Ecologically sensitive, modern safari camp with nine hybrid canvas and glass suites in a bushveld setting. (Two family suites and seven one-bedroom suites.)
• Timbavati Reserve is home to a myriad of species that include the Big Five, wildebeest, impala, and giraffe. 
• Each guest stay makes a foundation contribution, directly impacting conservation projects and a scholarship program.

Who it’s best for: Couples, and families who want to support safari lodges that care about communities and conservation.  

Makanyi Private Game Lodge, Timbavati Reserve

Family-owned Makanyi Private Game Lodge in Timbavati Reserve is to the west of Kruger National Park, so it’s a fantastic destination for viewing wildlife, including the Big Five. Spacious suites boast panoramic views of the dam and surrounding bush. The Marula Suite has two bedrooms and roughly 4,000 square feet of space. Daily activities include game drives, bush walks, and stargazing, and you can also book off-property activities, such as hot air ballooning and helicopter rides to view the Lowveld from another perspective. Between all of the action, reinvigorate body and mind at the spa or book a private massage in your room. 

• Just seven large suites, including two luxury pool suites and one family suite that sleeps up to four guests. 
• Sharpen your wildlife photography skills with the guidance of a tutor on a photographic safari or hire a professional photographer to capture the moments you won’t want to forget. 
• Participate in conservation efforts like rhino notching and anti-poaching surveillance flights in Timbavati Reserve.  

Who it’s best for: Families, couples, and conservation enthusiasts.

The best safari lodges in the southern Kalahari

Spanning some 360,000 square miles, the Kalahari is the second-largest desert in Africa. The southern Kalahari , which falls within South Africa’s Northern Cape province, is an arid, sandy savannah home to a myriad of birds, mammals, reptiles, and plants. While on safari, you may see giraffes, big cats, hyenas, warthogs, and meerkats. 

Tswalu Kalahari, Southern Kalahari

Tswalu is the largest private game reserve in South Africa (measuring nearly a quarter million acres), known for remarkable ochre dunes and the striking Korannaberg mountains. Driven by sustainability, ecotourism, and conservation, it’s perfect for travelers interested in rewilding, biodiversity, and local communities. Tarkuni Homestead holds a maximum of 10 guests in five suites—great for families or small groups who want a home to themselves. Motse Camp accommodates up to 18 guests in nine suites, and there is a communal area at the main camp. Newer Loapi Tented Camp features six large “safari homes” designed as glass and steel pavilions, and distanced 165 feet apart for privacy; each comes with a butler and private chef. Southern Kalahari safaris provide opportunities to see rare, endangered and elusive wildlife like the black-maned Kalahari lion, cheetah, brown hyena, desert black rhino, ground pangolin, and aardvark.

• Three luxury safari camps are the only ones on the reserve. With no more than 40 guests at a time, its low guest-to-acreage ratio translates to elusively and privacy.
• Enjoy a sumptuous multi-course meal at Klein Jan, where the seasonally shifting menu is stewarded by Jan Hendrik van der Westhuizen, the first South African chef to achieve a Michelin star.
• Explore the Tswalu Game Reserve at your own pace in a private safari vehicle with the help of a tracker and guide; horseback riding over the dunes, and visit groups of adorable, habituated meerkats.

Who it’s best for: Couples, families, friends, those wanting a malaria-free safari, and eco-conscious travelers who want to experience the inspiring beauty of the Kalahari.

The best safari lodges in the Eastern Cape

The Eastern Cape has several private reserves offering superb game-viewing, some of which represent rehabilitated farm and ranchland conservation come-back stories. Located between Durban and Cape Town, a variety of species are found here, such as the Big Five, wildebeest, zebra, cheetah, and giraffe. Travelers who want to get their toes in the sand can get their fix on the Eastern Cape’s impressive beaches.

Shamwari Sindile, Shamwari Private Game Reserve

The Shamwari Private Game Reserve is a conservation effort that supports the biodiversity of the Eastern Cape, and Shamwari Sindile provides an escape that will invigorate and inspire even the most seasoned safari-goers. Set above the bush and plains in the African veld, guests stay in large luxury tents that provide unobstructed views of the environment and the wildlife that moves through it. Between game drives, dive into your private, heated plunge pool on your deck, book a soothing spa treatment, or relax by the fire pit. At night, there isn’t any light pollution, so it’s perfect for stargazing after dinner. 

• Nine secluded luxury tents offer enchanting views of the unspoiled surrounds, including Bushman’s River. 
• Bush walks and game drives in open vehicles allow you to view wildlife like the Big Five, kudu, bushbuck, and monkey. 
• In the summer, guests can add a walking safari to Sindile’s sister property, Explorer Camp. You’ll move through Shamwari on foot and sleep in a bush tent at night to experience a different type of safari that brings you even closer to nature.

Who it’s best for: Families, friends, couples, travelers looking for a malaria-free safari, and adventurers who cherish the environment. 

The best safari lodges in KwaZulu-Natal

In addition to safari, the coastal province of KwaZulu-Natal offers travelers the chance to swim, dive and snorkel in a majestic marine environment. Imagine: vibrant coral teeming with tropical fish, and turtles and dolphins surfing the currents. On land, “the garden province’s” pleasant year-round climate begs travelers to explore diverse landscapes like palm savannah and wetlands.

Phinda Vlei Lodge, Phinda Private Game

The Phinda Private Game Reserve spans 73,800 protected acres and includes seven habitats where you can find wildlife like the Big Five, cheetah, black rhino, and 436 bird species. Phinda Vlei Lodge , which is located on the edge of a sand forest that’s home to red duiker and suni antelope species, is designed to provide luxurious comfort—that is, when you aren’t on adventurous day trips like game drives and marine safaris. You can also participate in conservation experiences with pangolins, rhinos, and elephants, as well as cultural experiences like a Zulu village tour. During the summer, witness loggerhead and leatherback turtles lay their eggs on the beaches of Sodwana Bay.  

• Six peaceful suites located snug between grassland and forest feature a private lap pool, outdoor shower, and deck.
• Book a “Sleepout Under the Stars” experience, during which you’ll imbibe sundowners and a sumptuous meal, and relax next to a campfire before tucking into a starlit bush bed.
• Explore Maputaland above and beneath the waves on a day trip to the beach or on an ocean safari. Go scuba diving in Sodwana Bay to enjoy one of the best dive spots on the planet.

Who it’s best for: Families, friends, couples, and travelers who want to explore beaches and underwater environments as much as they want to pursue adventures on land.

The best safari lodges in Madikwe Game Reserve

Thanks to conservation efforts, 27 major species have been reintroduced to Madikwe Game Reserve . Among them, live the highest concentration of rhino in Africa. Spanning roughly 185,000 acres, Madikwe is the country’s fifth-largest reserve. South Africa luxury safari lodges in this area offer an array of incredible wildlife, such as the “Super Seven” (Big Five plus cheetah and African wild dog), impala, antelope, hippo, spotted hyena, serval and warthog.

Molori Safari Lodge, Madikwe Game Reserve

The exclusive Molori Safari Lodge has just five suites, guaranteeing a peaceful and relaxing stay during which you’ll receive personalized attention. The elegant main lodge features a living room, infinity pools, spa baths, decks, dining areas, a bar, and a library. Mouthwatering meals are prepared by gourmet chefs and served with top-shelf liquor and fine wine. Overlooking a water hole that attracts frequent visitors, the viewing deck is a relaxing spot for watching wildlife.

• Five private, open-air suites boast a pool, deck and retractable glass walls that frame the picture-perfect surroundings, including Madikwe Valley and Dwarsberg Mountains.
• Guests can go on night game drives , outfitted with hi-tech torches to look for the “Super Seven” and other intriguing nocturnal wildlife. 
• Participate in rhino tagging and an African wild dog expedition for a hands-on conservation experience.

Who it’s best for: Travelers seeking ultimate privacy for a family vacation or romantic getaway; those looking for a malaria-free safari.

Tips for choosing the best South Africa safari lodges

Travelers typically spend 10 to 14 days in South Africa, enjoying time in their arrival city ( Cape Town or Johannesburg ) before flying or driving to their first safari destination. On a single itinerary, most people will visit two or three camps in a few different provinces. South Africa is popularly paired with a beach getaway in Mozambique , a visit to Victoria Falls ( Zimbabwe / Zambia ) or onward safari travel to Botswana and Namibia . Point being—you don’t need to restrict yourself to one lodge or a single reserve—in fact, far from it. With so many phenomenal accommodations and reserves, here are some tips for making the best choice for you: 

• Extraordinary Journeys safari specialists feel the best luxury safaris in South Africa are located within private game reserves and conservancies—especially when it comes to Greater Kruger. Exclusive by design, you won’t have to share your wildlife sightings with the crowds, especially in peak season.
• Be mindful of whether a camp or lodge has traversing rights with adjacent reserve or parklands. Where rights have been secured, you have a much broader range within which to experience game drives.
• South Africa is a year-round safari destination, but winters can be cold . It might not be worth splurging for amenities like a private plunge pool if you won’t be making good use of it.
• You’ll be spending a lot of time on game drives. Our best advice is to invest in the highest caliber of guiding your budget will allow.
• In South Africa, Kruger especially, some safari vehicles are nine-seaters (rather than six.) Consider that when full, at any time, two guests will be watching wildlife over the shoulders of others.

Plan your Trip

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Place of Miracles

Dedicated to environmentally conscious hospitality, sustainable conservation and the empowerment of local communities since 1993..

Singita's luxury safari lodges provide restorative sanctuaries and encounters in the bush that guests won’t find anywhere else. Sought-after locations, intuitive attention to detail and the utmost privacy underpin every stay. 

Find solitude in untouched natural surrounds

Our lodges offer guests the freedom to feel their senses awaken on safaris that enrapt and revive..

Awe-inspiring landscapes form the perfect backdrop for the stillness and privacy they seek with endless opportunities to truly slow down.

Singita, the Shangaan word for 'Place of Miracles’.

With limited guest and vehicle numbers, exceptionally consistent game viewing and warm-hearted hospitality, guests leave feeling transformed – with body and soul soothed by meaningful connections with loved ones, themselves and nature.

The start of a legacy

The singita story began in 1925 on a piece of land in sabi sand, owned by the bailes family..

It was the start of a legacy that unfolded over decades – and a brand entrenched in the same innovative spirit and family values. Singita is now a conservation and ecotourism brand offering guests exceptional safari experiences at 16 luxury, award-winning lodges and camps across four countries.

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A soul-restoring Singita experience. Find your sanctuary

Featuring unfiltered space & time, Singita’s award-winning luxury African wildlife safari lodges and camps offer remote locations, complete privacy and intuitive service at every turn. Each unique setting allows guests to truly connect with nature, and experience Africa’s most pristine wildlife & wilderness up close.

Singita Private Villa Collection

Sabi Sand, South Africa

Ebony Lodge

Ebony villa.

Boulders Lodge

Kruger National Park, South Africa

Lebombo Lodge

Lebombo Villa

Sweni Lodge

Malilangwe, Zimbabwe

Pamushana Lodge

Malilangwe House

Grumeti, Tanzania

Sasakwa Lodge

Faru Faru Lodge

Sabora Tented Camp

Serengeti House

Lamai, Tanzania

Mara River Tented Camp

Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda

Kwitonda Lodge

Kataza House

Let us plan your trip, our expert in-house travel service embodies the singita experience every step of the way..

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“To preserve and protect large areas of African wilderness for future generations”

Stay up to date, conservation, destinations, e. [email protected], t. +27 (0) 21 683 3424.

Sabi-sands.com

Sabi sands is the best place in the world for a safari..

A little bit about Sabi Sands Game Reserve

Spanning 65,000 hectares, the Sabi Sands Nature Reserve is a testament to the vision of local landowners in the 1950s. It stands proudly adjacent to the globally acclaimed Kruger National Park, forming a vast wilderness teeming with wildlife.

The legacy of these founding families, now in their third and fourth generations of stewardship, resonates in the successful conservation of South Africa's richest density of big game. A unique feature of Sabi Sands is its 50-kilometer unfenced boundary with the Kruger National Park, creating a harmonious coexistence that allows wildlife to roam freely. This has led to remarkably close encounters with the local fauna, including prolific sightings of the elusive leopard. The dynamic landscape is further enriched by the Sabi and Sand Rivers, weaving their way through the reserve, enhancing the rich biodiversity of this extraordinary habitat.

Going on safari in Sabi Sands

Embark on an incredible journey to Sabi Sands Nature Reserve in South Africa, but before you go, there are some important details you should know.

Curious about the travel duration? Wondering if this destination is accessible to everyone? Intrigued by the unique aspects that make this place truly special? And what essentials should you pack? In the following sections, you will find answers to these queries and more. If there's a question left unanswered, feel free to reach out to us using the contact form below, and our team will be thrilled to assist you!

About Sabi Sands Game Reserve

Sabi Sands Private Game Reserve near Kruger National Park in South Africa is one of those very special places in the world and is the ultimate African safari destination.

Sabi Sands special offers

Searching for that one special offer that makes all your safari dreams come through? Our Sabi Sands special deals offer excellent value for money. We hope to see you soon!

Getting to Sabi Sands Reserve

The Sabi Sands is one of South Africa's best accessible game reserves. We have multiple daily flights, three access gates and a lot of world-class roads leading right to us.

So incredible, we started to plan a return trip during the flight home!

The food was spectacular - budget on gaining a kg or 3! Good, fresh South African food, prepared and served in style. You will love it!

...the highlights being following a pack of wild dogs and watching a leopard and her cub jumping from branch to branch high up in the trees.

Sabi Sands Game Reserve lodges

Set off on a journey to Sabi Sands Nature Reserve, a captivating destination that offers a unique safari experience. After a day filled with discovery and exploration in the African bush, you'll appreciate a tranquil haven to relax and recharge.

Sabi Sands caters to every taste and budget with its varied accommodations. From cozy bush camps tucked away in the wilderness to luxury options beneath the stunning African night sky, there's a unique experience for every traveller. A stay in the Sabi Sands not only promises unforgettable moments, but also fosters a lasting bond with the pulsing heart of the African bush, leaving an enduring memory long after your journey is over.

• Price $$$$$

Chitwa Chitwa Lodge

lodge style Art-inspired African

Chitwa Chitwa Lodge overlooks one of the largest lakes in the Sabi Sands. It is designed as a spacious yet intimate camp - presenting sophistication in a relaxed atmosphere. The eight very spacious suites all have plunge pools.

from ZAR 26,550 per person per night

Ulusaba Rock Lodge

lodge style Tranquil hill & trees

Ulusaba Rock Lodge is built high on the summit of a small hill overlooking the South African bushveld. The rooms and suites offer views over a waterhole in front of the lodge, allowing you to view wildlife from the privacy of your room.

from ZAR 14,159 per person per night

Notten's Bush Camp

lodge style Down to earth elegance

Notten's is one of the original family run lodges in Africa, and a true gem within the Sabi Sands Game Reserve. As one of the original lodges, it has a magical bush atmosphere and offers a truly authentic safari experience.

from ZAR 9,975 per person per night

Lion Sands Game Reserve

lodge style Riverside serenity

The award winning Lion Sands is the only private reserve to have access to the perennial Sabie River, which it shares with Kruger National Park. You will find five beautiful lodges here, so there's always one that suits your taste!

from ZAR 23,800 per person per night

Sabi Sabi Game Reserve

lodge style Present, past & future

Within the Sabi Sands Reserve, Sabi Sabi has created three unique worlds through its four first-class camps: one of yesterday's vintage romance; today's classic bush experience; and tomorrow's African renaissance.

from ZAR 15,969 per person per night

Singita Sabi Sand lodges

lodge style A very private affair

At the Singita lodges, guests share the privilege of experiencing this wonderful part of Africa. Spanning more than 45,000 acres, Singita is renowned for high concentrations of big game and frequent leopard sightings.

from ZAR 39,954 per person per night

Dulini Game Reserve

lodge style World class luxury

Dulini boasts several extraordinary safari lodges, including Dulini River, Dulini Leadwood, and Dulini Moya, where sumptuous accommodations offer a strikingly elegant contrast to the rugged bushveld.

from ZAR 26,800 per person per night

Elephant Plains Lodge

lodge style Bushveld simplicity

Elephant Plains Lodge offers comfortable style and affordable luxury. This lodge is family owned and sleeps a maximum of 24 guests. As such, you can be sure to expect personal service and a warm atmosphere.

from ZAR 5,500 per person per night

Arathusa Safari Lodge

lodge style classic lakeside safari

Arathusa offers an affordable wildlife and Big 5 Safari experience in a traditional safari camp. In front of your chalet is a lake that attracts lots of game throughout the day: perfect for game viewing from your lazy chair!

from ZAR 9,045 per person per night

Tengile River Lodge

lodge style Tranquil river views

Tengile River Lodge is the latest addition to the Sabi Sands. Extremely spacious suites offer incredible views over the river in incredible luxury. Of course the sounds and views of the African bush are best enjoyed from the privacy of your own plunge pool.

from ZAR 34,799 per person per night

Jaci's Sabi House

lodge style Group and family home

This is the ideal bush retreat for small groups and families alike. Jaci's Sabi House accommodates six guests only in a completely private setting. Explore the Sabi Sands from the comfort of your private safari vehicle and take home some unforgettable memories.

from ZAR 48,174 (sleeps four)

Ulusaba Safari Lodge

lodge style Under a canopy of trees

Sir Richard Branson's Ulusaba Safari Lodge overlooks a dry riverbed and is shaded by ancient trees. The nearby waterhole guarantees great game viewing. The eleven luxury rooms provide a luxurious safari experience in complete privacy.

Leopard Hills Lodge

lodge style Hilltop splendour

Expect to enjoy some amazing views over the African bush when staying in Leopard Hills Lodge. Eight luxury suites offer only the best safari accommodation. Enjoy the sunset from your viewing deck or plunge pool.

from ZAR 22,714 per person per night

&Beyond Kirkman's Kamp

lodge style Victoriana delight

Kirkman's is a well known historic camp which was originally built in the 1920s. It airs a feeling of an early rural homestead, with a vintage style and gracious ambience. All cottages have a deck overlooking the Sand River.

from ZAR 18,394 per person per night

Nkorho Bush Lodge

lodge style stylish modesty

To ensure travellers of the best possible attention, Nkorho only sleeps a maximum of twelve people in six stylish thatched chalets. The spacious rooms have en suite bathrooms, contemporary interiors, and offer complete privacy.

from ZAR 9,379 per person per night

Londolozi Game Reserve

lodge style Magical lodge collection

Londolozi is one of the pioneering Private Game Reserves of the ecotourism industry in South Africa and an unashamedly family run, stand alone operation. There are five beautifully appointed lodges to choose from.

from ZAR 22,564 per person per night

Savanna Game Lodge

lodge style Classic semi-tented savannah

A longtime favourite and much loved true South African safari lodge. Savanna Lodge is situated in an area where 'Big Five' sightings are so common that it is not unusual to see all of them during a single safari activity.

from ZAR 16,015 per person per night

Idube Game Lodge

lodge style affordable african safari

Idube is situated in prime game area. Many animals are seen close to the lodge on a daily basis. The lodge is family owned and offers just ten luxury suites. Each suite has its own private wooden deck, great for wildlife viewing!

from ZAR 11,309 per person per night

Inyati Safari Lodge

lodge style Classic bush experience

Inyati Game Lodge is situated on the banks of the Sand River, providing stunning river views. All chalets have been refurbished recently, now offering perfect luxury safari accommodation in the midst of the Sabi Sands Reserve.

from ZAR 12,584 per person per night

Silvan Safari Lodge

lodge style Luxury safari redefined

An innate understanding of the bush and a deep love for Africa: these two elements define Silvan’s story. Book yourself a stay in this new, luxury lodge and leave with an uplifted spirit and a firmly rooted love for this land.

from ZAR 29,129 per person per night

Cheetah Plains Lodge

lodge style Ultrachic retreat

Characterised by modern design, this three-villa lodge offers privacy and exclusivity, accompanied by superb service. The ideal setting to relish in the untamed wilderness, and unparalleled wildlife encounters.

from ZAR 33,869 per person per night

Umkumbe Safari Lodge

lodge style Affordable elementary Bush

Umkumbe Safari Lodge is owner-managed and run; ensuring guests enjoy a personal, rustic and real South African safari experience. The lodge consists of six chalets with most overlooking the Sand River.

from ZAR 5,145 per person per night

Mala Mala Game Reserve

lodge style Classic family owned reserve

Many years of superb service -and experience- has resulted in the satisfaction of many guests. Relax in the unpretentious elegance and style of one of the finest safari experiences in Africa at Mala Mala Private Game Reserve.

from ZAR 19,664 per person per night

Simbambili Game Lodge

lodge style moroccan style Lakeside

Simbambili Game Lodge is a destination for the discerning traveller. Sophisticated yet simple, each suite has spectacular views whether from the unique en-suite bathrooms and salas or individual plunge pools.

from ZAR 18,895 per person per night

Sabi Sands Video

The best way of getting an idea what the Sabi Sands Game Reserve is about is by seeing some incredible footage from the area. We went out with our video camera and spent a lot of time outdoors to get you some of the most beautiful shots of the reserve imaginable.

Visit our Sabi Sands videos overview page for more videos and get inspired for your Sabi Sands safari.

We were off road and moving with the animals or quietly sitting watching them playing or feasting....magical.

The staff went out of their way to make our wedding and honeymoon as special as it could ever be. We were blown away.

Great place for viewing big cats!

Send your enquiry

We hope you have found all information needed to decide that the Sabi Sands Game Reserve is the perfect place for your next travel adventure. Still have questions? Or perhaps you would like more specific information about one of the topics on this page? Please fill in the contact form and we will get back to you soon!

• Sabi Sands Game Reserve
• Mpumalanga, South Africa
• [email protected]

1.866.551.9090

The 7 Best Luxury Safari Lodges in South Africa

Hotels | Africa and Middle East | By Michele Harvey

Below we’ve rounded up our seven favourite lodges – spanning six uniquely diverse areas of South Africa – whose safari activities exist to protect wilderness areas and benefit the communities around them.

Simply put, these are the best places in which to indulge in sundowners and commune with majestic wildlife.

SOUTH AFRICA’S BEST LUXURY SAFARI LODGES

Singita lebombo lodge, kruger national park.

This super modern lodge somehow manages to seamlessly fit into its stunning environment. The 15 loft-style suites, suspended above the N’wanetsi River, have an ethereal, light on the ground feel that resonates with its philosophy: “touch the earth lightly.” The design of the sophisticated steel and glass suites was inspired by the many eagles’ nests built into the cliff face of the river bank.

Singita Castleton Lodge

Formerly the family home of Singita founder Luke Bailes’ grandfather, Singita Castleton is an exclusive use lodge set within 45,000 acres of private reserve. Steeped in history, this charming lodge captures the spirit of the original Castleton house, lending the property a historical and comforting feel.

Castleton has been designed to combine the best elements of a private safari lodge with the rustic charms of a country farmhouse, making it the perfect homebase for a multi-generational bespoke experience. Its luxuries include a vast garden, swimming pool, wine cellar, gym, tennis court and spa treatment room.

Grootbos Garden Lodge

Grootbos nature reserve.

Situated on the Grootbos Private Nature Reserve in the Gansbaai area, this award-winning reserve is home to the largest Milkwood Forests in the world. The lodge is set within the fynbos and forest-clad hills which overlook the whale-watching haven of Walker Bay. A perfect place for a family safari, where you can take in the ocean’s Big 5.

Kwandwe Ecca Lodge

Kwandwe private game reserve.

The Lodge is set into the gently sloping aloe-studded hillside banks of the Great Fish River and is an unusual construction of stone-and-mesh gabion walls, sliding glass doors and corrugated iron roofing. Fresh farm cuisine is prepared in the interactive, open-plan kitchen, while the spacious lounge, dining and bar areas are airy and open, with almost invisible separations between indoors and the intriguing African bushveld.

Dulini Lodge

Sabi sand reserve.

An intimate luxury safari lodge, Dulini is located in the western sector of the Sabi Sand Reserve, which borders the Kruger National Park. A quiet retreat, Dulini rests under a leafy canopy of ebony trees on the banks of the dry Mabrak River and boasts views across the riverbed and bushveld.

Jamala Madikwe Royal Safari Lodge 

Madikwe game reserve.

Set amidst 75,000 hectares of the pristine Madikwe Game Reserve, Jamala Madikwe provides a quintessential safari experience. The lodge successfully brings opposites together, complementing its colonial style with African eccentricity. At Jamal they’ve perfected the “sofa safari,” with an amazing waterhole right in front of the lodge so you can watch all the animals come to drink while Rodney serves you gin and tonics.

Marataba Mountain Lodge

Marataba private reserve.

This 23,000-hectare private concession within the Marakele National Park (Limpopo, South Africa) offers a sanctuary where people can connect with South Africa’s stunning natural habitat. It offers breathtaking views of the dramatic Waterberg mountains, vast plains, rich animal diversity and winding rivers that cut through the landscape. It’s also one of the few lodges that truly allows you to get out and be active.

• &BEYOND LODGES
• South Africa
• Flying solo
• With my partner
• With my family
• Adventurous
• Responsible Travel
• Private Travel
• Slow Travel
• TRAVEL TRADE PORTAL
• MANAGE YOUR TRAVEL BOARD

Reawaken your soul

• Indian Ocean Islands
• South America
• Cape Whale Coast
• Cape Winelands
• Eastern Cape Game Reserves
• Garden Route
• Johannesburg
• Kruger National Park
• KwaZulu-Natal
• Madikwe Game Reserve
• Sabi Sand Nature Reserve
• Tswalu Kalahari

VIBRANT CITIES AND PRISTINE WILDERNESS AWAIT

The landscapes of South Africa are world-renowned – home to no less than 10 UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Not only does the country boast highly acclaimed Big Five wildlife reserves but travellers are treated to flourishing winelands, with some of the best wines in the world. Idyllic beaches, craggy mountains, forested slopes, and hilly countryside give way to awe-inspiring canyons and gorges that are host to a multitude of adventure activities. Trendy nightlife, thriving cafe culture and dazzling cities, including Cape Town, are a major drawcard showcasing a cosmopolitan beauty and diversity.

Discover South Africa’s iconic destinations

Our favourite reasons to travel, from exceptional offers to not-to-be missed tours and experiences, here are our favourite reasons to explore south africa that matched your preferences, discover the best time to travel to south africa.

We’ve curated a ‘when to go’ calendar to help your guests decide when is the best time to explore vibrant South Africa. With so much on offer, every month boasts an array of happenings waiting to be discovered and explored. 

I dream of travel that leaves our world a better place

You’re just 5 easy (and fun) steps away from creating your ideal Travel Dream Board.

Step 1: Start with where

Step 2: Clarify what kind of traveller you are

Step 3: Tick off those grand bucket list experiences that will fire your imagination

Step 4: Log in to create and add to your Dream Board

Step 5: Share & start dreaming

TAILORMAKE YOUR STAY

Talk to one of our travel specialists to tailormake you stay to any of our destinations

Stories to inspire

Our selection of south africa stories from the bateleur magazine, our travel specialists, we're on hand to make your tailor-made adventures come true, leaving our world a better place for years, discover the impact legacy that your travel with &beyond is driving. just as the un’s sustainable development goals have been a touchstone for our vision 2020 group-operation sustainability audits, so they continue to guide and underpin our ambitiously scaled vision 2030 goals., we're sorry but this site doesn't work properly without javascript enabled., please enable it to continue., privacy overview.

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A Soulful Safari Experience

Jabulani, where luxury and purpose meet.

It’s not every day that you get to go on safari. And choosing a safari lodge is about more than just game drives and a high thread count – it’s about the feeling it evokes in you, the memory that remains ingrained in your heart long after you’ve returned home. A Jabulani safari promises nothing but the best in luxury, but the highlight of your trip will no doubt be sharing a space with the gentle presence of our famous elephant herds.

The eyes never forget what the heart has seen

5-Star Luxury in Kruger National Park

As a proud Relais & Châteaux member and 5-star luxury lodge in Kapama Private Game Reserve in Kruger National Park, a Jabulani safari promises nothing but the best experience from start to finish. And you’ll get to share a space with the gentle presence of Jabulani’s famous elephant herds, a highlight of our guests’ trips.

Experience the extraordinary

Meeting our rescued elephant herd ranks at the top of our guests’ favourite experiences. But there are also plenty of other things to do, such as game drives, walking safaris, bird-watching, exploring the little creatures, helicopter flights, hot air balloon rides, and spending time at our onsite facilities.

A Relais & Châteaux dining experience

Jabulani offers a one-of-a-kind, all-inclusive dining experience. We don’t just believe in constantly innovating with the freshest ingredients, but also in switching up our locations. Enjoy fine cuisine in the best setting, from breakfast bush picnics and sundowner canapés, to star-lit private dinners or gatherings in the boma.

Explore our full offering

There’s no better setting for a spa than the bush. The calmness of your surroundings is contagious, soothing even the most stressed soul.

Wine Cellar

Swirl and sip some of South Africa’s premier red and white cultivars during a private wine tasting or cosy dinner at our chic onsite wine cellar.

Gym & Sauna

Stay in shape while still indulging in our culinary delights and get your endorphins flowing at our open-air fitness center with a view.

Browse our highly curated boutique for treasures and trinkets to take souvenirs and gifts for friends and family back home.

Watch Jabulani Live on Africam

Conservation & community, elephant conservation, sustainability, xilaveko day care, pack for a purpose, rhino conservation.

We built Jabulani on the foundation of rescuing and reintroducing orphaned elephants to new herds. This can be tricky, as elephants decide whether they accept a new elephant to their herd. However, over the past 20 years, we’ve successfully reintroduced orphaned elephants into new herds.

Everything we do and build is centred around leaving a light ecological footprint and making a difference. This includes our eco-friendly lodge design, bana grass plantation project, elephant dung eco-projects, water conservation, recycling, and wildlife conservation.

The Jabuladies project was initiated by Jabulani owner, Adine Roode, and aims to inspire, enlighten and empower women from our local communities to create a unique collection of hand-embroidered items.

We believe that looking after our planet has many sides to it, including managing our human consumption and production. That’s why we believe in using fresh seasonal ingredients in our kitchen as much as possible to limit our dependence on external fresh produce suppliers. We do this by growing our own produce onsite with our innovative aquaponics system that combines aquaculture and hydroponics.

One of our highly respected butlers at Jabulani, Obert started a new venture outside of working hours, paying forward the opportunities he’s been given and opening a not-for-profit daycare in his garage with his wife.

We’re proud to be members of the Pack for a Purpose initiative that strives to uplift local communities through tourism. We call on our guests to save some space in their suitcase for supplies as outlined in our wishlists for our HERD Elephant Orphanage, Mpisi Primary School, or Hlokomela Clinic to make a difference in our community.

Discover more about rhino conservation on safari, with greater insight into the rehabilitation and rewilding of rhinos affected by poaching.

At Jabulani, we work together with the communities around us in Hoedspruit in various ways, because conservation can go so much further when the people who share the land are involved or benefit from it in a way that uplifts them.

Witness the elephants

For an insightful experience that will stir you deeply, join us in observing our herd and learning about their highly emotional, relatable nature. By doing this, you directly help us to support them and build a better future.

Share your special moments with us

Whether it’s your proposal, wedding, honeymoon, wedding anniversary, babymoon, or an occasion worth celebrating, we’d like to go the extra mile to make it special.

Become a JabuJunior

We believe that little ones should not have to sit out on the excitement of a safari. And that they’re never too young to learn about the soulful secrets of the African wild and its animals.

Reviews & Visitor Experiences

The staff and the rooms were great, and the food was superb. The staff did their best to please and to make sure each day had variation. The chefs and guides were superlative. We had a fantastic time. It felt like we had traveled back in time to a pleasant remnant of the British Empire. - Nakorsakov

What a great place and a great stay. Stephan and Chantelle are fantastic managers with an awesome team working at the lodge. Our guide Jason is so knowledgeable and an absolute pleasure to drive with. I cannot begin to describe the fantastic room where we stayed in absolute luxury. The two Chefs Alex and Dylan - oh my word, the food these guys make is unexplainable fantastic and one has to experience this to really appreciate good taste. We fell in love with the place. We loved our stay and will recommend Jabulani to anyone who takes a good stay, good food, lots of animals and great people in the bush serious! - Wilma V

Attention to detail is incredible. I could not fault Jabulani on one thing. Elephant experience is very moving and spiritual. All staff very friendly Ruan the best of the best. Absolutely loved every minute. - Carrylvanbassen

The place, the staff, the elephants, all authentic and exciting. It was a magical, charming, calming and elevating experience. I can’t wait to bring my two daughters next time to share this corner of the Earth with me. - FPocorn

The place was amazing - extremely well run and totally welcoming. Highly recommended for anyone wanting luxury combined with lifetime trip experiences we will remember forever. Staff and Management should be congratulated for leaving no stone unturned with respect to care service and the full Safari Experience. Thanks for making this trip one we will never forget - Special mention to Ruan - Our Safari ranger and tour guide! Thank You - ADunn

Favorite place on earth! Yeap, if someone were to ask me which is my favorite place on earth, Jabulani would be the place. We discovered this gem in 2017 and have been back every year, being this our fourth visit. We have always felt the warmth and the kindness of everyone here, from the wonderful managers, Chantel and Stefan to every single staff member, who are always ready to pamper you and help you in any way. - CGriffiths

Chantal, Stefan and the team were awesome and made our stay a memorable experience. a SPECIAL thanks to Dylan, the chef, Songs our butler, and of course, Ruan, our ranger. The three of them are what made the lodge and stay a 5 star soulful experience. Ruan was absolutely amazing! The big 5 in 2 days and then some rare sightings of very special wildlife. Not to mention Jabulani and the boys. We will return soon! - DSmith

The Top 10 Luxury Safari Lodges In South Africa

South Africa has some of the most amazing safari lodge experiences in the world. The photographic safari model started in South Africa and has spread through the rest of Africa, India and Sri Lanka. Many of the luxury safari lodges in South Africa and specifically the Kruger National Park win the best hotel in the world awards as voted by guests and travels authors. There are so many amazing lodges each with their own character and feel. Here are just some of them that make up the top 10 luxury safari lodges in South Africa.

Singita Boulders Lodge, Sabi Sand Game Reserve

Singita is world renown for its luxury lodges throughout Africa. Started in South Africa, their Boulders Lodge is one of their favourites. Singita Boulders Lodge is a luxury safari lodge in South Africa’s Sabi Sand Game Reserve, which shares an unfenced border with the world-renowned Kruger National Park. The lodge is located along the Sand River, which provides an ideal vantage point to view local wildlife and relaxing in the pristine wilderness.

The lodge takes its name from the ancient boulders that mark the terrain and inspired the property’s design and construction. The contemporary African style of Singita Boulders Resort Lodge blends well with the natural setting while providing an extraordinary degree of luxury and comfort.

The lodge has 12 rooms, each with its own private viewing terrace and heated plunge pool, giving visitors exceptional seclusion and a personal connection to the African bush. The suites include floor-to-ceiling glass windows that provide breathtaking views of the river and surrounding wildlife. Natural materials such as wood, stone, and leather are used to adorn the interiors, providing a sophisticated yet relaxing atmosphere.

Singita Boulders Lodge offers a range of activities for guests to enjoy during their stay, including game drives, bush walks, stargazing, wine tastings, and visits to adjacent community development projects. The lodge has a spa, gym, and boutique, providing guests with a variety of services and experiences.

The Sabi Sands Game Reserve

The Sabi Sand Game Reserve is a privately owned wildlife reserve in South Africa, located near the famous Kruger National Park’s southwestern border. The reserve, which covers around 65,000 hectares (160,000 acres), is known for its exceptional animal and plant life which creates amazing game viewing opportunities. It is part of the Greater Kruger National Park, which protects approximately 20 million hectares of African wilderness.

The name Sabi Sand comes from the two rivers that flow through the reserve, the Sabie and the Sand rivers. The area between these two rivers are among the most productive hunting habitats for predators like lions, leopards, cheetah, caracal, African wild cats and wild dogs in the world. Due to this there is a high concentration of hunting cats and other carnivores in the area which creates an unbelievable viewing opportunity for visitors staying in the reserve.

The beautiful landscape along the rivers, the rugged terrain away from them, numerous antelope species, other smaller animals, The Big 5 and an impressive variety of bird species makes this an unbelievable wildlife safari location and the home of many of the best luxury safari lodges in this list.

Royal Malewane, Greater Kruger National Park

Royal Malewane is a small premium safari lodge in South Africa’s Thornybush Private Game Reserve, which forms part of the Greater Kruger National Park. The lodge provides an intimate and exclusive safari experience, combining opulent suites, world-class cuisine, and unparalleled wildlife sightings.

Royal Malewane’s three luxury safari lodges and private bush villas, each reflecting an exquisite vision of design and supreme hospitality, allows you to experience the African wilderness in comfort, style, and seclusion. Royal Malewane boasts about having the most experienced and qualified guiding team in Africa. They take great care in selecting their guiding staff which includes both safari guides and expert animal trackers.

Royal Malewane offers three lodges – Malewane Lodge, The Farmstead and Waterside.

• Malewane Lodge has six exquisite suites, two Royal Suites, and Africa House, an exclusive-use home for up to 12 guests. Each suite is charmingly decorated, with classic colonial-style furnishings, four-poster beds, and huge windows with views of the surrounding bushveld. All suites include a private deck, a heated plunge pool, and an outdoor shower, allowing visitors to experience the African wilderness in comfort and seclusion.
• The Farmstead is designed in a contemporary African style that complements its natural surroundings. The design combines traditional features and local craftsmanship to create a warm and welcoming setting that represents the region’s rich cultural heritage. The Farmstead offers three Luxury Farm Suites and The Farmhouse, a private home that can sleep up to six people. The Luxury Farm Suites are stylishly equipped and spacious, with a large bedroom, en-suite bathroom, private outdoor shower, and a private veranda with a heated plunge pool. The Farmhouse is a beautiful and exclusive-use property with its own dedicated crew, which includes a private chef, butler, housekeeper, and a safari guide with a private game-viewing vehicle.
• The aesthetic effect of a stay at Waterside, with its very striking design, dramatically redefines the typical safari experience. You’ll feel the energizing energy of the African bush the moment you step through the floating entrance bridge and arrive in the warmth of Waterside. The scene is reminiscent of Eden, with a lively waterhole surrounded by fever trees and wildlife. It is minimalist in design and anticipates every requirement for a wonderful modern safari.

The Thornybush Private Game Reserve is home to a diverse range of animals, including the Big Five (lions, leopards, elephants, buffaloes, and rhinoceroses) as well as cheetahs, wild dogs, giraffes, and zebras. The area’s different habitats sustain a diverse birdlife, making Royal Malewane an ideal site for birdwatchers.

In addition to great game watching, Royal Malewane provides guests with a variety of leisure activities and amenities to enjoy throughout their stay. The Waters of Royal Malewane Wilderness Spa is a serene hideaway where visitors can engage in calming treatments, while the lodge’s dining experiences provide the greatest local and foreign delicacies prepared with fresh, seasonal ingredients.

Londolozi Private Game Reserve, Sabi Sand Game Reserve

Londolozi was established in 1926 and is well-known for its devotion to conservation, eco-tourism, and community empowerment. The name “Londolozi” comes from a Zulu phrase that means “protector of all living things,” reflecting the reserve’s deep commitment to protecting African wildness and assisting local communities.

The reserve encompasses around 16,000 hectares (40,000 acres). Londolozi is especially well-known for its remarkable leopard sightings, and it has been the focus of numerous films and publications as a result of its exceptional wildlife encounters.

Londolozi is made up of five luxury camps, each with its own ambiance and level of luxury:

• Pioneer Camp: With only three suites, Pioneer Camp is ideal for families or small parties looking for a private safari experience. Pioneer Camp is known for its personalized service and specialized activities. The camp’s staff caters to each guest’s personal needs and interests, ensuring a unique and unforgettable experience.
• Varty Camp: The original Londolozi camp has ten chalets that represent the reserve’s rich history while offering modern facilities and elegance. The camp has ten chalets, each decorated in the classic safari style that is synonymous with Londolozi. The chalets have spacious rooms with en-suite bathrooms, private decks, and outdoor showers, allowing guests to connect with nature while remaining comfortable. For added luxury, some chalets offer private plunge pools.
• Founders Camp: This camp offers seven chalets along the Sand River’s banks, offering a classic safari experience with a touch of modern luxury. The camp has seven chalets, each of which has been deliberately crafted to strike the perfect blend between classic safari elegance and modern luxury.
• Tree Camp: Tree Camp is an adults-only camp with six magnificent apartments perched on stilts, affording stunning vistas and a romantic environment. Tree Camp offers a romantic and elegant setting among the trees on the banks of the Sand River, providing a calm and personal experience for people seeking a premium safari escape. Tree Camp has six elevated suites that are built on stilts and are designed to fit in with the surrounding canopy.
• Granite Camp is Londolozi’s most private and luxury camp, with only three suites and a personalised safari experience tailored to clients’ desires.The suites are designed with a refined blend of organic and modern features, resulting in a magnificent ambiance that matches the surrounding natural environment. Each suite has a large bedroom, an en-suite bathroom, an outdoor shower, and a private heated pool. The suites also have floor-to-ceiling windows and a private deck with breathtaking views of the Sand River and the surrounding nature.Granite Camp’s exclusivity allows for a highly personalized experience, with a specialized team of professionals catering to each guest’s individual wants and preferences.

Londolozi focuses a great deal of attention on their guide and tracker training programs. They have a rigorous guide selection program that includes specialist trainers that upskill the guides in more than just wildlife knowledge but also tracking, hosting and storytelling skills. This is because Londolozi wants to create a unique highly sophisticated guiding experience that connects with nature around it rather than simply observes it.

Londolozi is also home to the Tracker Academy. The Tracker Academy was formed in 2010 by Alex van den Heever and Renias Mhlongo in collaboration with the SA College of Tourism and the Peace Parks Foundation. The academy is located in South Africa’s Londolozi Private Game Reserve and is dedicated to conserving traditional wildlife tracking techniques while also providing employment opportunities for people from rural communities. Read more about the Tracker Academy here.

Londolozi has received international recognition for its conservation efforts, eco-tourism projects, and commitment to elevating local communities through education, healthcare, and business development programs. Guests that visit Londolozi contribute to these initiatives, helping to conserve the African bush for future generations.

The Leopards of Londolozi

Londolozi’s leopards have become iconic emblems of the reserve, attracting wildlife enthusiasts, photographers, and researchers from all over the world.

The Londolozi area’s unique combination of the Sand River, diversified vegetation, and plentiful prey populations makes it a great home for leopards. Leopards have thrived in their natural surroundings thanks to Londolozi’s conservation efforts and long-standing policy of minimum human involvement.

Londolozi has earned a reputation for providing exceptional leopard watching opportunities, with numerous generations of these elusive cats becoming accustomed to the sight of safari vehicles. Guests may view leopards up close and witness their normal habits, such as hunting, mating, and raising their young, thanks to this habit.

The skilled rangers and trackers at Londolozi work closely together to locate and track the leopards, ensuring that guests have the best possibility of seeing these majestic animals during their stay. The heavy emphasis on ethical wildlife viewing techniques guarantees that the leopards’ well-being remains a key priority, and that human presence does not interrupt their normal activities.

Lion Sands Game Reserve, Sabi Sand Game Reserve

The MORE family, who have a long history of offering great safari experiences, owns and manages Lion Sands .

The reserve is located along the Sabie River, which attracts a wide variety of animals, including the Big Five and many other species. Like the rest of the Sabi Sands, the area is noted for its amazing leopard and lion sightings.

Lion Sands Game Reserve has a variety of excellent lodgings, including four lodges and several treehouses. Each lodge offers great service, comfort, and amenities to visitors, as well as breathtaking views of the surrounding environment. The treehouses provide a unique and exciting way for guests to experience the African wilderness, allowing them to sleep under the stars while being surrounded by nature.

Spa treatments, bush dining experiences, trips to nearby communities, and stargazing are all available at the lodge.

The MORE group operates several luxury lodges and hotels across South Africa, these include:

• Marataba Safari Lodge and Marataba Mountain Lodge can be found in the Limpopo Province’s Marakele National Park.
• Madikwe Safari Lodge is located in North West Province’s malaria-free Madikwe Game Reserve.
• The Cape Cadogan Boutique Hotel and the More Quarters Hotel are both nestled in the dynamic metropolis of Cape Town.
• Stanley & Livingstone Boutique Hotel: Situated near Zimbabwe’s famed Victoria Falls.
• Pel’s Post is set in the Kruger National Park’s northern section.

Phinda Private Game Reserve, KwaZulu-Natal

Phinda Private Game Reserve is a distinguished game reserve in South Africa’s KwaZulu-Natal province. Phinda, which encompasses over 70,000 acres, is noted for its various ecosystems, spectacular wildlife observations, and dedication to conservation and community development. andBeyond, a prominent premium experience travel business known for its high standards of service & sustainability, manages the reserve.

Phinda is distinguished by its broad range of habitats, which includes woodland, grassland, marsh, forest, and hilly regions. Because of its diversity, the reserve is home to a wide range of wildlife and plant species, making it an attractive location for nature enthusiasts and photographers.

There are several beautiful lodges to select from in Phinda, each with great service, comfort, and amenities, as well as breathtaking views of the surrounding wilderness. The lodges are meant to fit in with the natural environment, minimizing environmental effect while offering visitors with an immersive and realistic safari experience.

Madikwe Safari Lodge, Madikwe Game Reserve

Madikwe Safari Lodge is a luxurious and stylish lodge in South Africa’s North West Province’s malaria-free Madikwe Game Reserve. The reserve, which covers roughly 150,000 acres, is South Africa’s fifth-largest game reserve.

The MORE group operates Madikwe Safari Lodge, which has three distinct lodges on the property, each catering to different preferences and travel styles:

• Lelapa Lodge: Our family-friendly and hospitable lodge features 12 spacious rooms, each with a private plunge pool, outdoor shower, and spectacular views of the surrounding bushveld. The lodge offers a variety of family-friendly activities and services to ensure a memorable and engaging experience for guests of all ages.
• Kopano Lodge: Built for couples and small groups looking for a more private safari experience, Kopano Lodge has only four suites, creating an exclusive and tranquil environment. The architecture of the lodge emphasizes privacy and romance, making it ideal for honeymoons or special occasions.
• Dithaba Lodge: Located on a hill with panoramic views of the reserve, Dithaba Lodge is ideal for family or group bookings. The lodge provides four spacious suites as well as a variety of tailored services to guests to customise their safari experience to their preferences.

Madikwe Safari Lodge, particularly Lelapa Lodge, is dedicated to offering a family-friendly safari experience. Madikwe Safari Lodge offers a variety of family-friendly activities and facilities, including:

Family game drives: These game drives are specifically created for families with children, catering to the interests and attention spans of younger guests, offering a fun and educational wildlife experience for the entire family.

• Eco House: The Eco House is a dedicated children’s entertainment area that offers a variety of fun and educational activities such as arts and crafts, games, puzzles, and wildlife-themed toys.
• Bush orientation and tracking: These activities teach children about the African bush and its inhabitants while also teaching them practical skills like animal tracking, plant identification, and navigation.
• Children can take part in interactive cooking workshops where they will learn to prepare simple dishes and taste the flavors of local cuisine. This enjoyable activity fosters an interest in culinary arts as well as an appreciation for diverse cultures.
• Family dining alternatives: The lodge provides a variety of family-friendly dining options, such as early lunches for younger children, customized menus, and flexible mealtimes.
• Madikwe Safari Lodge provides professional babysitting services, allowing parents to relax or partake in activities that are not suitable for younger children.

Madikwe Safari Lodge’s emphasis on family activities ensures that each member of the family has a memorable and engaging experience during their stay, encouraging a love of nature and a respect for the necessity of conservation.

Tswalu Kalahari Reserve, Northern Cape

Tswalu Kalahari Reserve is a large, privately owned game reserve in South Africa’s Northern Cape area. It is South Africa’s largest private game reserve, covering over 110,000 hectares, and is dedicated to wildlife protection, sustainability, and providing unique and unforgettable experiences for its guests. Tswalu is in the southern Kalahari region, which is known for its dramatic vistas, rich flora and fauna, and renowned red sand dunes.

The reserve is home to a diverse range of animals, including the iconic Kalahari black-maned lions, cheetahs, leopards, African wild dogs, and over 240 bird species. Tswalu is also a haven for rare and endangered animals in South Africa, including the pangolin, aardvark, and desert-adapted black rhino.

Tswalu has two luxurious lodge choices, both of which provide great service, comfort, and amenities:

• The Motse: This lodge is made up of nine spacious and stylishly furnished legae (Tswana meaning “small house”), each with its own bathroom, outdoor shower, and private sundeck. There is an infinity pool, jacuzzi, gym, library, and wine cellar in the main lodge area. The Motse combines authentic African style with contemporary luxury to create an immersive and comfortable experience.
• Tarkuni: This villa is ideal for families or small parties seeking a more private and personalized experience. Tarkuni features five deluxe suites, a private chef, a specialized game drive vehicle, and a variety of customized services and activities.

During their stay at Tswalu, guests can participate in a number of activities, including:

• Game drives: Led by experienced rangers and trackers, game drives in Tswalu provide guests with one-of-a-kind wildlife encounters that are tailored to their interests and preferences.
• Bush walks: Learn about the Kalahari ecosystem’s vegetation, animals, and smaller species that are typically ignored during game drives.
• Horseback safaris: Get a different viewpoint on the Kalahari environment and wildlife by riding well-trained and well-cared-for horses.
• Junior Ranger program: An instructional program for children that incorporates bushcraft skills and the opportunity to participate in wildlife conservation efforts.
• Stargazing: The Kalahari’s pristine skies and little light pollution provide excellent stargazing possibilities, which may be experienced at Tswalu’s professional observatory.

&Beyond Ngala Safari Lodge and &Beyond Ngala Tented Camp, Timbavati Private Nature Reserve

The Timbavati Private Natural Reserve, which shares an unfenced border with South Africa’s famous Kruger National Park, is home to two luxury lodges: &Beyond Ngala Safari Lodge and &Beyond Ngala Tented Camp. The Timbavati reserve, known for its spectacular wildlife sightings, including the Big Five, provides travelers with a remarkable and authentic safari experience.

&Beyond Ngala Safari Lodge: This magnificent lodge has 20 elegant thatched cottages, three family cottages, and one family suite that blend harmoniously with the surrounding bushveld. Each cottage is thoughtfully constructed to provide comfort, solitude, and stunning views of the reserve. The primary rooms of the lodge include a large dining area, a cozy lounge, an outside boma for dining under the stars, and a swimming pool. The lodge also has a dedicated WILDChild program for children, ensuring that younger guests have a stimulating and instructive experience.

&Beyond Ngala Tented Camp: &Beyond Ngala Tented Camp provides nine deluxe tented suites located on high platforms overlooking the seasonal Timbavati River for those searching for a more intimate and immersive safari experience. Each suite at the camp is meant to provide an authentic yet comfortable experience, with an en-suite bathroom, outdoor shower, and a private terrace. The main camp area features a chic lounge, dining area, and a swimming pool with a view of the riverbed.

Tanda Tula, Timbavati Private Nature Reserve

Tanda Tula is a luxury safari camp in the midst of the Timbavati Private Nature Reserve, which shares an unfenced border with South Africa’s world-famous Kruger National Park. Tanda Tula, known for its spectacular animal sightings and warm, welcoming ambiance, provides an intimate and unique safari experience.

The camp provides two types of lodging:

• Tanda Tula Safari Camp: This traditional tented camp has 12 beautiful and spacious tents, each with its own bathroom, outdoor shower, and private balcony overlooking the Nhlaralumi riverbed. The main part of the camp features a lounge, dining room, bar, and swimming pool, all with breathtaking views of the surrounding forest. Tanda Tula Safari Camp, which accommodates a maximum of 24 guests at a time, focuses on giving a genuine, intimate, and personalized safari experience.
• Tanda Tula Field Camp: Tanda Tula Field Camp offers a unique walking safari excursion for those looking for an even more exclusive and immersive experience. This private-use camp has four custom-designed tents that can sleep up to eight people. The Field Camp is dedicated to providing an authentic, back-to-nature experience, including guided walking safaris conducted by skilled rangers and trackers.

MalaMala Game Reserve, Sabi Sand Game Reserve

MalaMala Game Reserve is one of South Africa’s oldest and most established private reserves. It is part of the Sabi Sand Game Reserve. The reserve has more than 13,300 hectares (33,000 acres) of pristine wilderness and provides a really authentic safari experience.

MalaMala Game Reserve has three luxury camps that cater to all categories of visitors:

MalaMala Main Camp: The reserve’s first camp, MalaMala Main Camp, has 18 luxury rooms and suites, all with en-suite bathrooms and private balconies overlooking the Sand River. The main part of the camp features a dining room, lounge, bar, library, and a swimming pool. The accommodations and facilities combine modern design elements with traditional African elements.

Sable Camp: Sable Camp is a more intimate and exclusive choice, with 5 luxury suites and 1 two-bedroom suite. The camp has a maximum capacity of 14 people, making it suitable for small groups and families. The main area includes a dining room, lounge, bar, library, and a swimming pool with views of the Sand River.

Rattray’s on MalaMala: Rattray’s is the MalaMala Game Reserve’s most private and opulent camp. It has 8 spacious and private khayas (Zulu meaning “homes”), each with a heated plunge pool, outdoor shower, and private terrace. The main part of the camp features a dining room, lounge, bar, library, spa, gym, and swimming pool.

Contact Secret Africa

+27 21 204 6073

Email: [email protected]

Address: Workshop17, 17 Dock Road, V&A Waterfront, Cape Town, 8005

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• World's Best

The Top 10 Safari Lodges in Africa in 2021

Lila Harron Battis is a freelance writer and editor. She was previously a senior editor at Travel + Leisure .

Note: If you’re looking for our most recent recommendations, check out the 2023 list of our favorite safari lodges in Africa.

This year's World's Best Awards survey was open for voting January 11 through May 10, 2021, as destinations around the world were lifting COVID-19 restrictions. Survey rules have always allowed readers to reflect on their travel experiences over a three-year period. We hope that this year's honorees will inspire your own travels as you get back out into the world.

The Western idea of Africa as a vast unknowable expanse of wilderness — rather than a living, breathing place with as much diversity and unique regionality as any other continent — has endured with stubborn longevity. Perhaps quintessential images like silverbacks in a lush mountain forest, giraffes and acacia trees silhouetted against a savannah sunset, and herds of elephants in the floodplains along a winding river stick with travelers because they are so unlike the nature scenes of the U.S., where centuries of human interference have left little trace of true wilderness or of the animals that once roamed freely.

Africa's rarefied natural spaces have compelled generations of adventurers to seek them out — and the hospitality world has kept pace. Today's safari-goers have little more to worry about than checking off the Big Five and whether to order red or white with dinner. And for the ultimate in service, comfort, and indulgence, they can't go wrong with the places that T+L readers voted onto this year's list of the best safari lodges in Africa.

Every year for our World's Best Awards survey, T+L asks readers to weigh in on travel experiences around the globe — to share their opinions on the top hotels, resorts, cities, islands, cruise ships, spas, airlines, and more. Hotels (including safari lodges) were rated on their facilities, location, service, food, and overall value. Properties were classified as city hotel, resort, or safari lodge based on their locations and amenities.

The spots on the list are brimming with opulent touches and spectacular scenery. At No. 4 Angama Mara, in Kenya's Masai Mara , two 15-tent camps dot the edge of an escarpment about 300 yards above the game reserve. The views of the Great Rift Valley are so cinematic it's tempting to stay on property and just gawk at the scenery. Don't miss a visit to the on-site craft workshop, where Masai women teach guests the techniques and meaning behind their beading traditions, or the photography studio, where you can test out pro gear and polish up your safari snapshots with cutting-edge photo-editing software.

At No. 6 Singita Grumeti, in Tanzania , the lodging options offer something for every style: crystal chandeliers and gilded frames at Sasakwa Lodge, rattan chairs and campaign tables at Sabora Tented Camp, and breezy furnishings and basketry-inspired light fixtures at Faru Faru Lodge, among others. In South Africa, andBeyond Ngala Safari Lodge (No. 9) has 20 cottages that blend light details — wide-slate bathroom floors, ceramic stools, pale patterned loveseats, high thatched ceilings — with the gravitas of deep-hued wood furnishings, muted flat-weave rugs, and antique-inspired wildlife illustrations. Overall, it feels grounded and traditional, but never stuffy. The property is situated on Ngala Private Game Reserve, which — thanks to the success of andBeyond's conservation work — is now part of Kruger National Park.

Many of the properties on this list held an emotional resonance for our readers, one that lingered long after returning home. Of the Bushcamp Company's Mfuwe Lodge, in Zambia, which came in No. 8, one reader wrote, "I dream about Mfuwe, the people, and the sounds of the animals at night. The experience I had was beyond everything I imagined." Another put it simply: "You truly connect with raw life." A reader who spent time at No. 5 Gibb's Farm, in Tanzania, called it "the most magical place I've ever stayed!" And at Sasaab, in Kenya, the property's do-good efforts made a mark just as much as the luxe environment: "Sasaab's culture is fabulous," a reader wrote of the No. 10 property, adding that "the hotel has an innate sustainable ethos."

But the best safari lodge in Africa, the Richard Branson–owned Mahali Mzuri, brings together every element readers expect in their experience, then amplifies it all tenfold. Read on to find out why it's so beloved and which other lodges join it on this year's list.

1. Mahali Mzuri, Masai Mara, Kenya

The 12-suite Mahali Mzuri sits on the edge of a lush bowl, and there's not a bad seat in the house: over breakfast, you can watch monkeys scrabble in the trees and grass; from the pool you'll spot giraffes wandering through to snack on the acacias; sitting on your private terrace you may catch a glimpse of a cat stopping to drink from the rocky stream that runs through. And the property's location is ideal for maximizing both wildlife spotting and privacy. It's set within the private, 33,000-acre Olare Motorogi Conservancy, which is part of the Masai Mara ecosystem but beyond the bounds of the national park. That means all the richness of big game, but no other cars in sight—you can get within feet of a lion pride and have the moment all to yourself, with no jockeying for position or tuning out the chatter of other safari-goers. "Mahali Mzuri is the best luxurious camp to visit on the African continent," declared one reader; "just perfect," wrote another. The team is small and familial, with the kind of warm, relaxed — yet flawless — service that gives guests the easy sense of being among friends; the guides are among the best in the business, many having worked at the property for years to develop intimate knowledge of the land and its wildlife. One reader put it best: "The hospitality at Mahali Mzuri resembles its name," he wrote, noting the translation of the Swahili: "the Beautiful Place."

Score: 99.73 More information: virginlimitededition.com

2. Savute Elephant Lodge, a Belmond Safari, Chobe National Park, Botswana

Score: 98.75 More information: belmond.com

3. andBeyond Phinda Vlei Lodge, Phinda Private Game Reserve, South Africa

Score: 98.50 More information: andbeyond.com

4. Angama Mara, Masai Mara National Reserve, Kenya

Score: 97.73 More information: angama.com

5. Gibb's Farm, Karatu, Tanzania

Score: 97.63 More information: gibbsfarm.com

6. Singita Grumeti, Serengeti National Park, Tanzania

Score: 97.60 More information: singita.com

7. Khwai River Lodge, a Belmond Safari, Moremi Game Reserve, Botswana

Score: 97.47 More information: belmond.com

8. The Bushcamp Company's Mfuwe Lodge, South Luangwa National Park, Zambia

Score: 97.33 More information: bushcampcompany.com

9. (tie) andBeyond Ngala Safari Lodge, Kruger National Park Area, South Africa

Score: 97.26 More information: andbeyond.com

9. (tie) Sasaab, Samburu, Kenya

Score: 97.26 More information: thesafaricollection.com

See all of our readers' favorite hotels, cities, airlines, cruise lines, and more in the World's Best Awards for 2021 .

No matter the destination, Travel + Leisure GO can turn your vacation dreams into reality. With nearly endless reservation options to fly or stay, book your next getaway — near or far — at Travel + Leisure GO .

It Takes a Pride

To serve a king.

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Tau intro video, downloadable calendar, current tau special offers, welcome to tau game lodge, your luxury safari getaway.

Tau is a South African luxury safari lodge situated on the far northern border of South Africa, in malaria-free Madikwe Game Reserve, the 4th largest game reserve in the country.

27 major species of game roam this South African nature reserve, making Tau Game Lodge the ideal place for a safari holiday, offering Big 5 game safaris and bird-watching safaris. Enjoy an authentic South African safari vacation in the midst of natural wildlife, complete with great game viewing and luxury private facilities, at our South Africa luxury safari lodge.

Additional Services Offered by Tau Game Lodge

• Convention Centre

The main hall of this South African conference venue (270m2 in total) is made up of three sub-halls

• Spa Facilities

Relax, revitalise and rejuvenate your body, mind and soul in the uniquely African surroundings...

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For those wedding couples with a common love for the African Bush, who would prefer to enjoy...

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• Telephone : +27 11 466 8715/7
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Recent Tau Blog Publications

Tau news in april.

Dear All, Another month has flown by here in Madikwe. The bush seems to eat time, days roll into one another, and as our Mainte [...]

The tug of Tau Game Lodge

By Tracy Maher, editor of BabyYumYum Reading time: 7 min When I’m feeling overwhelmed, I usually retreat to the sanctuary [...]

A time of light after darkne...

As some may know, Madikwe's wilddog population was devastated by rabies earlier in the year, but from the ashes five dogs remai [...]

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Nambiti Game Reserve - South Africa

Step out of your world and into ours.

The Homestead is an ultra-luxury eco-lodge on the Nambiti Private Game Reserve, in the malaria-free KwaZulu-Natal region of South Africa. Steeped in history and bristling with technology , this new safari lodge is hewn from local ironstone and the roof is planted with indigenous grasses, embedding The Homestead into the natural environment . The Homestead will get you closer to the big five, with the chance to spot over 50 protected mammal species and over 300 bird species.

Discover The Homestead

The Homestead offers twelve suites, six of which are perfect for couples or solo adventurers. The other six suites can be connected together for families and larger groups and the entire property can be booked for events.

African-inspired food created with the finest organic, locally sourced ingredients. Braais in the Boma. A Whisky collection with dozens of bottles from around the world. Tea, Coffee and Wine tastings to tantalize your taste buds.

Game drives in electric vehicles, sundowners on The Homestead deck watching the animals at the waterhole, cooking classes with amazing chefs, showering in the waterfalls of the formidable Drakensberg mountains, and heavenly stargazing.

Positive impact for people and planet.

We believe that we’re all responsible for creating a better world for each other and future generations, and that means taking care of the people around us and the planet we live on. Find out more about how we are working to eradicate poaching, support local communities and incorporate sustainable practices in everything we do.

Sore, jetlagged muscles soothed by world-class therapists using Terre D’Afrique oils. Starting your day with a swim in your private infinity pool at sunrise. Yoga classes on The Homestead deck. Mesmerising flames flickering in the firepits.

Battlefield tours explain how our architecture combines with original 19th-century features to honour the land’s history. You can meet our community elders. Recognise constellations. Sip and paint.

Join us. #TheHomestead

@visithomestead.

• Iron Stone 🪨 A Dolerite rock found in the ground surrounding The Homestead, excavated during construction and expertly carved into the cladding for the main lodge and our luxury suites. #TheHomestead #Recycling #Design #SustainableMaterial #Luxury #Safari
• ✨ The Homestead main lodge connects a beautiful, natural escarpment to an active watering hole at the other end. The roof is planted using the same grass that covers the nearby grasslands to add a layer of natural harmony to its design and allow it to blend perfectly into its surroundings. ✨ #TheHomestead #Design #Architecture #SouthAfrica #Luxury #Safari
• Merry Christmas! We’re so grateful to have you all on our journey. We hope today is full of joy, family and friends 🎄 🎅🏻
• Happy Hanukkah! Wishing you and your family warmth and light this Hanukkah season 💙
• It's World Ranger Day! We want to thank each and every Ranger for their unwavering commitment, bravery and the sacrifices they make to protect and conserve our wildlife. #WorldRangerDay #StandWithRangers #Conservation
• Happy World Giraffe Day! Did you know that Giraffes can guzzle up to 45kgs of leaves and twigs a day? 🤯
• Happy Father's Day! We hope today brings all the love and joy you each deserve, The Homestead team 🧡
• Happy Mother's Day! You are all extraordinary and we are grateful for everything you do for us! ❤️
• In South Africa, Freedom Day is a chance to celebrate the ability to vote. In 1994, the first democratic elections were held and everybody, no matter their race, could participate. Photography: Emma Gatland
• Did you know? 💡 Marabou Storks can swallow a full kilogram of food in one gulp!
• Aloe spectabilis ❇️ Native to KwaZulu-Natal ❇️ Has antibacterial and antibiotic properties so can be used for bee stings, insect bites and other medicinal purposes. ❇️ Grows 10 leaves a year, so by counting the leaves on the plant as well as the dead leaves on the trunk you can work out exactly how old it is. On average takes around 80 years to grow to a meter. ❇️ Is eaten by Kudu and Eland in the dryer months and Elephants love them Photography: Craig Scott Photography
• On 21st March, Human Rights Day is observed by South Africans to remember the sacrifices made that led to democracy being established in South Africa. Photography: Emma Gatland
• Our full-body deep tissue massage makes use of tools like this Acacia wood tri-touch tool to relive tension in the deeper layers of muscle with firmer pressure and slower strokes. The Homestead Spa will rejuvenate your mind, body and spirit with a wonderful array of treatments using the finest products and tools to give you the best experience possible. Photography: Craig Scott Photography
• Sundowner 🍹 (noun) 1. a drink at sunset in a beautiful spot 2. the perfect way to start the weekend Photography: Craig Scott
• Happy International Woman's Day to the strong, intelligent, talented and simply amazing women everywhere! We love and appreciate you! 🥰
• Did you know? 💡 Elephants eat up to 150kg in one day, which is roughly the weight of an adult Hartebeest. Photography: Rudi Hulsholf
• The Southern Tree Agama/Blue-throated Agama 🔹 Males have a bright blue head which they use during displays to attract the attention of the simple brown or tan females. 🔹 Ants make up the main component of their diet. 🔹 These lizards are considered to be primarily arboreal and spend most of their life in the treetops Photography: Rudi Husholf
• Happy Valentine's Day! 💕 Photography: Emma Gatland
• The Yellow-billed Stork: ⭐ These birds can grow between 95-105 cm, weigh around 1,900-2,300 grams, with a wingspan of 150-165 cm. ⭐ During breeding season their white plumage becomes a delicate pink colour. ⭐ Their preferred feeding method is to stand in knee-deep water along the edge of reeds, stamping their feet, in search of frogs, small fish and other aquatic life. Photography: Rudi Husholf
• A very happy 2023 to you all! Here’s to a wonderful year 🥂
• Happy Thanksgiving, from The Homestead family to yours. 🧡 #happythanksgiving #visithomestead #southafrica #nambiti
• Wake us up when it's the weekend! 😴 #visithomestead #thehomestead #sleepinglions #wanderlust #igtravel #travelgram #instatravel #luxurytravel #luxurysafari #africansafari #southafrica #nambiti
• Want to know more about The Homestead’s artisan and tailor-made food offerings? Or want to know why the drinks selection will be truly special, from wine experiences, whisky tastings to bespoke cocktails? Then head to our Q&A with Francois Briel, Food & Beverage Manager at The Homestead - Link in bio. #visithomestead #thehomestead #artisan #wineexperience #whiskytasting #bespokecocktails #wanderlust #igtravel #travelgram #instatravel #luxurytravel #luxurysafari #africansafari #southafrica #nambiti
• Turtles on a hippo! 🐢🦛 A beautiful snapshot of the wildlife in @nambitireserve living in complete harmony! 💚 #visithomestead #thehomestead #turtles #hippos #wildlifephotography #wanderlust #igtravel #travelgram #instatravel #luxurytravel #luxurysafari #africansafari #southafrica #nambiti
• Starting to plan your travels for 2023? Don’t forget to include The Homestead on your list, situated in the @nambitireserve, The Homestead mixes sustainable practices with wonderfully attentive service. There is nowhere on Earth quite like it as a haven of tranquillity, discovery and reflection. Sign up for our newsletter to be one of the first to find out when we open – Link in bio. #visithomestead #thehomestead #wanderlust #igtravel #travelgram #instatravel #luxurytravel #luxurysafari #africansafari #southafrica #nambiti

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Thanda Safari Lodge

The Royal Thanda Club

BY THANDA SAFARI

A luxury game reserve in kzn..

Situated in the rich wildlife area of South Africa’s northern KwaZulu Natal (KZN) is one of Africa’s most luxurious safari destinations, Thanda Safari. This multi-award-winning, Big Five private game reserve spanning 14,000-hectares offers four unique safari accommodation options: Thanda Safari Lodge, Villa iZulu, Thanda Tented Camp and The Royal Thanda Club by Thanda Safari, each one an absolute dream to experience.

Thanda’s dedicated team of wildlife guides and trackers lead guests on an adventure into the reserve’s plains, valleys and mountains in search of the legendary Big Five and all the extraordinary wildlife that can be seen on an African Safari.

In addition to offering guests an unforgettable safari experience, what sets Thanda Safari apart is the embracing of Zulu people and Zulu culture – one of the most enigmatic, powerful, enduring cultures in the world. Thanda Safari is committed to the socio-economic empowerment of the local Zulu communities.

Plan your stay with us.

Destinations.

South Africa Tanzania Mediterranean

Thanda Safari Lodge Thanda Tented Camp Villa iZulu The Royal Thanda Club Thanda Island Thanda Classic Cruise

Thanda Gallery Thanda Island Gallery Thanda Cruise Gallery Villa iZulu Gallery The Royal Thanda Club Gallery

+27 32 586 0149 [email protected]

An Oasis of 5-Star Luxury in Pilanesberg Game Reserve, South Africa

A celebration of, and commitment to, the beauty of africa, a luxury lodge, surrounded by the unsurpassed natural beauty of the pilanesberg game reserve, replete with indigenous wildlife., premiere suite with wood-fired hot tub, elephant shrew, buffalo weaver, rhino beetle, family chalet, leopard tortoise, what the people have to say, “our mbazo experience was nothing short of incredible”.

Safari with Panache

Suites may appear down to earth, but they are far from it at our luxury lodge. Every convenience has been provided, and each includes a shaded deck for guests to enjoy. — just like home, but better.

• King-Sized bed, fully stocked minibar, outdoor shower, shaded veranda
• Children of all ages are welcome. Family suite and fun-filled Ava & H Kids Adventure Safari Club
• Kol-Kol Woodfire Hotub available in selected rooms

OUR WILDLIFE

Experience nature as it should be.

MEMORABLE MOMENTS TO LAST A LIFETIME

Hand-picked guides & skilled travel planners.

Embark on Game Drives or Walking tours for stunning views of the Northern Pilanesberg mountains in gorgeous light while being able to see the wildlife that roam just beyond the walls of our luxury lodge.

Game Drives

You can expect to see not only the magnificent Big 5 but also a wide variety of animal and birdlife combined with the scenic vistas that Pilanesberg offers.

Long journeys and the anticipation of finding magical moments can be tiresome, which is why we offer a short break with freshly brewed coffee and some home-prepared snacks to replenish energy levels.

Walking Safaris

Please note: The tour is physically challenging so it is recommended that guests be in good physical health with high stamina to join. What to wear: Neutral clothing (Beige, brown, green, grey) to blend into the environment. Muted colour tones are acceptable but not recommended.

TRUE BEAUTY COMES FROM WITHIN

Rejuvinate the mind & body.

Our Elephant Spa with Soul concept encompasses de-stressing and relaxation to rejuvenate the mind and body. The Earth provides the benefits of our spa products, so that you can pamper yourself at leisure whilst on safari at our luxury lodge.

• Romantic Couples Massage
• Pampering Facial
• African Rungu Massage
• Elephant Mud Bath

A Gourmet Adventure Awaits

From start to completion, dining at Restaurant Shongololo is a gourmet adventure. Guests are served various dishes in theatrical settings, sparking all their senses and making the dining experience thrilling and interactive.

WHERE YOU CAN FIND US

#24 pilanesberg,, black rhino private game reserve.

Click here to chat to us via WhatsApp

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The 25 Best Safari Lodges in South Africa

To go on safari is to experience one of life’s greatest adventures but finding the best safari lodges in South Africa, can be a journey in itself. Whether a 4x4 safari is on your bucket-list or you're a budding conservationist at heart, from the Western to the Eastern Cape, up to the plains of Limpopo, Mpumalanga, and the Kruger Park we’ve hand-picked the best safari lodges in South Africa for spotting 'The Big 5'. Looking for a family stay, a couple’s retreat, a five-star stay, or a spa-fari experience? We've got it covered! Our collection of the best safari lodges in South Africa ensures that all you have to worry about is keeping your eyes open for one of Mother Nature’s most incredible performances.

For a family stay

• Kwandwe Private Game Reserve , located in the Eastern Cape is a refuge for endangered animals, not to mention travellers with children! A luxurious private game reserve, five different lodges are dotted amidst 54,000 hectares. Choose between exclusive-use villas and stylish suites – whatever suits your families needs. Without a doubt one of the best safari lodges in South Africa for families.
• Excellent family safari lodge, Kapama Southern Camp is ideal for exploring the Kruger Park. Plenty of activities and flexible accommodation (including catered villas with pools) ensure it’s perfect for a get-together. A great choice if heading on safari with all the family.
• Family-owned, family-led, Madikwe Safari Lodge is a five-star stay suitable for all ages. It offers lots of activities including walking and driving safaris, as well as bird-watching. Alternatively grown-ups can indulge in a spa treatment. A well-recommended family safari experience.
• Priced for families, Khaya Ndlovu Manor House is filled to the rafters with antiques and local curios. It feels more like a home than a hotel. All of the rooms are cosy with sink-into-sofas, antique books, quirky artwork, and plenty of board games to keep all ages entertained.
• Kids will love waking up at Gorah Elephant Camp , without a doubt one of the best safari lodges in Addo Elephant National Park for families! Relax in the cosy setting of your colonial-style tent as these gentle giants pass by, en route to the watering hole. Bask in your very own watering hole, in the form of a glistening infinity pool.

For a five-star luxury lodge

• One of South Africa’s best safari lodges, Jabulani Safari is a favourite amongst honeymooners and well-heeled travellers. A “homage to the elephant”, it is located just outside the Kruger National Park and is on the front doorstep for spotting The Big 5. Stunning suites include four-posters, roll-top baths, and sprawling views. For total privacy, the Zindoga Villa is available on an exclusive basis.
• An award-winning lodge, Leopard Hills Private Game Reserve , located in the Sabi Sand Game Reserve provides a five-star stay with private pools, an impressive wellness menu, and opulent suites with four-poster beds and luxurious bathrooms. Sample your choice of 'bush cuisine' or Western flavours, paired with an excellent wine list.
• With numerous awards under its belt, Royal Malewane does not disappoint. The safari lodge of dreams, its recently added Farmstead provides unrivalled luxury and total privacy. Colourful rooms are designed by the owner herself, Liz Biden. Though it bears a hefty price tag, once you’re there it’s an all-inclusive stay.

For sustainability

• Set amidst 26,000-acres of private reserve, Gondwana Game Reserve provides the ultimate Out Of Africa experience, all in a convenient location – just a 4-hour drive from Cape Town. Committed to conservation, this is one of the best safari lodges in South Africa for an environmentally friendly stay. Their mission is to use education, training, and community involvement to create employment for the local community while actively protecting the endangered flora and fauna within the region.
• Boasting excellent value as well as commendable conservation efforts, Hitgeheim Country Lodge & Eco-Reserve is a collection of 16-cottages just a short drive from Addo Elephant National Park. In particular, their Cheetah Project and Elephant Conservation offers educational guided tours and contributes to the preservation of these beautiful animals.
• A lifelong project for the Tompkins family, at 1.3 million acres, Samara Private Game Reserve is South Africa's third-largest protected area. Home to all of The Big 5, they are committed to preserving the local ecosystem. Very luxurious, it’s also one of the best safari lodges in South Africa for families.

Sleep under the stars

• Total romance at Motswari Private Game Reserve . This stunning family house turned safari lodge - with interiors by famed designer David Strauss and artwork by Marion Geiger-Orengo is an aesthete's haven. And the very best bit? You can sleep out in the wild.
• Spa, dining, and sumptuous interiors, Klaserie Sands is a grown-ups only lodge amidst the Kruger Park. Made for romance, it's loved by honeymooners, many of whom opt to try their ‘Star Bed’ experience. One of best safari lodges in South Africa for couples.
• A five-star stay with commendable conservation efforts, immersive spa treatments, and a long list of activities, but what sets Tswalu Kalahari is the opportunity to sleep al fresco, under the Milky Way, in The Motse camp. An unforgettable stay.
• Voted one of Condé Nast Traveller’s ‘Top 20 safari lodges in Africa’, there’s a lengthy list of reasons that make Lion Sands Game Reserve . Its prime location amidst The Kruger Park, restaurant quality dining and five-star spa treatments are all up there, but the piece de resistance has got to be their treehouse stay – the ultimate romantic sleepover.

For a couples stay

• A much more modern setting than most safari lodges in South Africa, Kapama Karula Camp offers 12 suites, including private pools and indoor-outdoor living, as well as an impressive wellness menu and fine dining; it truly is one of South Africa’s most romantic safari lodges.
• Roll-top baths, al-fresco showers and candle-lit bush dining, Tanda Tula wows with design-led interiors and tents with private sit-outs. Set in the heart of the Timbavati Game Reserve there’s no better place to experience wildlife with romance, and service to match.
• Nestled amidst the Kruger Park, Hamiltons Tented Camp is an adults-only safari lodge and unforgettable couples’ stay. Choose from candlelit dining served alongside a colonial setting and fine wines or indulgent spa treatments or why not opt for both!
• Set amidst the stunning Sabi Sands Reserve, Nkorho Bush Lodge is great for couples, but also one of the best safari lodges in South Africa for families (and adults looking for some alone time)! Babysitting services are available, whilst you dine by candlelight or indulge with a spa treatment.
• All-out luxury, Kariega Settler's Drift is a contemporary, architecturally beautiful lodge, providing chic accommodation in a rugged setting. Sprawling rooms boast sink-into bathtubs and epic views. Utterly romantic.
• Camp Ndlovu is a very intimate stay with just three suites – the best boasting private pools. Adults-only, their offering includes pampering spa treatments, sophisticated interiors and capacious four posters. A very romantic experience.

For a spa-fari experience

• With its award-winning spa, Bushmans Kloof Wilderness Reserve & Wellness Retreat is a sanctuary in itself. Utterly romantic, enjoy an open-air massage in the Riverside Gazebo, perched alongside the tranquil waters of the Boontjes River. Using signature B|Africa products, facilities include crystal steam room, heated outdoor pool, health bar, fitness centre and tranquillity lounge – all the hallmarks of a five-star spa set amidst the African wilderness.
• With a more contemporary feel than most lodges in Limpopo, Mhondoro Safari Lodge & Villa has an excellent wellness offering, including juice cleanses and yoga breaks. It’s also reasonably priced, compared to other safari lodges, and provides excellent children’s facilities, including a kid’s club and babysitting services. Highly recommended.
• Light and airy interiors abound at Esiweni Luxury Lodge , off-the-beaten-track in Nambiti Game Reserve, KwaZulu Natal – home to all The Big 5, without the safari footfall of The Kruger Park. A member of the Relais & Chateaux collection, gourmet dining is guaranteed, but what sets it apart from the rest is the comprehensive spa menu, including immersive outdoor treatments, overlooking the reserve.
• Boasting an extensive Africology wellness programme (as well as a fully-fitted gym) Madikwe Hills Private Game Lodge has all the facilities of a five-star hotel, in the privacy of its very own reserve. Superb conservation efforts ensure guests look after themselves, as well as the local environment.

STILL NOT SURE?

• Expand your search to include all our recommended safari lodges in the Kruger Park, Addo Elephant National Park , Sabi Sands, and The Karoo
• or widen the net even further and take in all the best safari lodges in South Africa including the Western , Eastern , and Northern Cape , the Free State , KwaZulu Natal , the North West Province , and Limpopo and Mpumalanga (for the Kruger Park).
• Alternatively you can contact one of the gurus for advice .

Hitgeheim Country Lodge & Eco-Reserve Addo 16 rooms from $133

Traditional African style huts, with thatched roofs, concealing luxurious interiors and quirky bathrooms. Each includes its own private sit out from which to watch the birds and wildlife pass by. There's a pool, excellent safari opportunities, as well as a strong environmental ethos. See More

Khaya Ndlovu Manor House Hoedspruit,, Limpopo 8 rooms from $423

Filled to the rafters with antiques and local curios, all of the rooms are very cosy with sink-into-sofas, antique books, and quirky artwork. Bask in the panoramic views from the infinity pool and decking area. An excellent breakfast is served each morning; lunch and dinner à la carte. See More

Samara Private Game Reserve Graaff-Reinet,, Eastern Cape 9 rooms from $441

Surrounded by thousands of acres of wild terrain, with 360° views across the Plains of Camdeboo. Choose from cheetah tracking to walking safaris, and picnic out in the wild. With admirable sustainability efforts, this property is passionate about conservation. Beautiful suites and fine dining. See More

Gondwana Game Reserve Western Cape 28 rooms from $547

A four-hour drive from Cape Town airport, this 26,000-acre private game reserve provides the ultimate Out Of Africa experience, in a convenient location. Rustic luxury lodges are perfect for couples and the family. There's a spa, fine dining, as well as enough activities to keep you busy for weeks! See More

Motswari Private Game Reserve Mpumalanga 15 rooms from $733

Stunning family house turned safari lodge - with interiors by famed designer David Strauss and artwork by Marion Geiger-Orengo it is an aesthete's haven. Each of its suites boasts a private sit-out where you can listen to the sound of the bushveld. Superb dining, infinity pool, plus daily safaris. See More

Hamiltons Tented Camp Kruger National Park, Mpumalanga 6 rooms from $765

Nestled amidst the Kruger Park, this adults-only safari lodge boasts luxurious suites and superb wildlife opportunities. An utterly romantic stay choose from candlelit dining and indulgent spa treatments. Delicious freshly baked cakes and pastries are served - as are gourmet dishes and fine wines. See More

Nkorho Bush Lodge Limpopo, Mpumalanga 7 rooms from $769

Beautifully appointed suites nestled amidst the private Sabi Sands reserve. Great for couples and families. Babysitting services are available as are indulgent spa treatments. A buffet feast is served for breakfast, lunch, and dinner plus there's a great wine list. Excellent safari opportunities. See More

Mhondoro Safari Lodge & Villa Limpopo 6 rooms from $797

Luxurious hotel providing excellent wellness packages and family facilities. Billowing four-poster beds gaze out across the wilderness, some rooms include private pools. Gourmet dining makes for a very romantic stay. From kids' clubs to juice cleanses, there's something to keep everyone happy. See More

Kapama Southern Camp Hoedspruit (R40 Klaserie River) 22 rooms from $840

Excellent family accommodation boasting private pools and your choice of activities. Flexible accommodation and dining mean it's perfect for children, whilst adults will love the spoiling spa treatments. Modern suites include stylish accommodation with private sit outs and some have private pools. See More

Camp Ndlovu Limpopo,, Limpopo 3 rooms from $880

This adults-only hotel provides the ultimate romantic stay. Private terraces look out across the bushveld (the best include their own private pool). Daily guided safari drives allow you to soak up the local wildlife. Superb dining, opulent suites, and pampering spa treatments - a spoiling stay. See More

Bushmans Kloof Wilderness Reserve & Wellness Retreat Clanwilliam,, Western Cape 16 rooms from $883

An utterly immersive experience. This hotel is committed to its conservation efforts, from protecting the local wildlife to ensuring that almost all of your cuisine comes straight from their organic garden. Boasting an indulgent wellness centre, a long list of activities, and stunning suites. See More

Gorah Elephant Camp Addo 11 rooms from $937

Five-star stay amidst the famed Addo Elephant National Park. Relax in the lavish setting of your colonial-style tent to the sound of the plains. Candle-lit dining is the height of luxury - every creature comfort is taken care of. There's an inviting pool (the guest's own watering hole) to unwind. See More

Klaserie Sands Mpumalanga 5 rooms from $942

This five-star stay, nestled amidst the Kruger Park provides lavish interiors in a very grown-up setting. Choose between lounging by the pool, head out on an expertly led safari drive, or relax with a spa treatment - you can even 'sleep under the stars'. Superb dining. A great stay. See More

Esiweni Luxury Lodge Ladysmith, KwaZulu Natal 5 rooms from $1007

Utterly luxurious safari lodge in the heart of the Nambiti Game Reserve. This five-star stay provides guests with a romantic and indulgent base from which to head off in search of the Big 5. All inclusive, two safari drives are included in your stay. Modern and opulent suites are very romantic. See More

Madikwe Safari Lodge North West Province 20 rooms from $1043

A family-owned lodge that welcomes yours. This five-star stay is suitable for all ages and offers luxurious rooms and bathrooms alongside plenty of activities. Gourmet dining, al fresco and by candlelight is an unforgettable experience. A lavish and well-recommended stay. See More

Kariega Settler's Drift Kenton-on-Sea,, Eastern Cape 9 rooms from $1063

All out luxury this contemporary, architecturally beautiful lodge provides chic accommodation in a rugged setting. Sprawling rooms provide a lavish stay with sink into bathtubs boasting epic views. Superb dining, an inviting bar, and a picture worthy infinity pool. See More

Kwandwe Private Game Reserve Grahamstown,, Eastern Cape 26 rooms from $1235

Private game reserve comprised of five different properties, all different, all equally as luxurious. Choose between exclusive use villas and stylish suites. Superb wildlife opportunities, gourmet dining, spa treatments, and plenty to keep the little ones busy. Excellent eco credentials. See More

Tanda Tula Limpopo,, Mpumalanga 12 rooms from $1602

Five star stay in the midst of the Timbavati Game Reserve provides opulent interiors with colonial style tents filled with antiques. Each includes a private sit out with unparalleled views and bathrooms with roll-top baths. Fine dining plus excellent activities. An indulgent stay. See More

Madikwe Hills Private Game Lodge Madikwe Game Reserve,, North West Province 10 rooms from $1855

Luxurious ten bedroom lodge boasting extensive wellness menu. Rooms juxtapose organic materials, stone and wood, with capacious four-posters and white linens, opening out onto a private terrace and pool. Restaurant quality dining in the middle of the African bush. Superb conservation efforts. See More

Lion Sands Game Reserve Kruger National Park, Mpumalanga 12 rooms from $2095

One of South Africa's finest safari lodges guests are pampered beyond imagination. Gourmet dining, indulgent spa treatments, there is even treehouse accommodation for the ultimate romantic sleepover. Suites boast impressive views, indoor-outdoor living and enormous baths. Divine. See More

Kapama Karula Camp Hoedspruit 12 rooms from $2424

Modern safari lodge providing separate suites nestled in the heart of the African bush. Boasting private pools and indoor-outdoor living, it's a truly wild stay. Enormous suites spill over into luxurious bathrooms. An impressive wellness menu, fine dining, and excellent game drives. Wonderful. See More

Jabulani Safari Hoedspruit 7 rooms from $2474

Sumptuous five-star suites boasting private pools, opulent four-poster beds and baths that are meant for lingering - with views out across the savannah. Gourmet dishes are on the menu, from a hearty breakfast spread to candlelit dinners. Immersive spa and plenty of activities. Sublime. See More

Leopard Hills Private Game Reserve Hazyview,, Mpumalanga 8 rooms from $2501

Award-winning lodgings, located in the Sabi Sand Game Reserve provides a five-star stay with private pools, an impressive wellness menu, and opulent suites with four-poster beds and luxurious bathrooms. Sample your choice of 'bush cuisine' or Western flavours, paired with an excellent wine list. See More

Tswalu Kalahari Northern Cape 15 rooms from $3340

Five-star lodge with excellent conservation efforts and immersive spa treatments. Choose from riding, walking, or 4x4 safaris to spot the local wildlife. Rooms are very romantic, and there's even the option to sleep under the stars. The full package, an unforgettable stay. See More

Royal Malewane Hoedspruit 6 rooms from $3459

Winner of countless awards, Royal Malewane is one of, if not the most luxurious stay in South Africa. With a hefty price tag it's one to truly spoil yourself, though once you're there, it's all included. Colourful rooms are designed by the owner herself, Liz Biden. Gourmet dining. A sublime stay. See More

Written by Megan Lambert

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Pinnacle of Luxury: South African Safari Lodges

Date Posted: 06/10/2023

Safari Hotel

Singita sabi sand.

Singita Sabi Sand stands out as one of the most sought-after luxury safari lodges in South Africa. Nestled within the renowned Sabi Sand Game Reserve, this exclusive destination offers a truly immersive and unforgettable wildlife experience. With its prime location, Singita Sabi Sand provides guests with the opportunity to witness the extraordinary Sabi Sand wildlife up close and personal. From the majestic Big Five to a rich variety of birdlife and smaller creatures, the reserve boasts a diverse and thriving ecosystem. But it's not just the wildlife that sets Singita Sabi Sand apart. The lodge itself exudes opulence and sophistication, offering guests a luxurious safari experience like no other. From elegant suites and private plunge pools to gourmet cuisine and personalised service, every aspect of the stay is tailored to perfection. For those seeking a high-end safari adventure that combines luxury and nature, Singita Sabi Sand is the ultimate destination.

Royal Malewane

Royal Malewane offers guests an unparalleled luxury safari experience in the heart of South Africa. This exquisite lodge not only provides a breathtaking setting for wildlife enthusiasts but also actively participates in wildlife conservation efforts. The lodge is committed to preserving the natural habitat and protecting endangered species through various initiatives. Guests have the opportunity to engage in educational activities, such as guided bush walks and conservation talks, to learn about the importance of wildlife conservation. When it comes to dining, Royal Malewane takes luxury to new heights. The lodge boasts an array of exquisite dining experiences, where guests can savour the finest African cuisine prepared by renowned chefs. From romantic candlelit dinners under the stars to bush breakfasts surrounded by the sights and sounds of the wilderness, every meal is a memorable affair. The lodge also offers a wine cellar stocked with an impressive selection of South African wines, ensuring that each dining experience is perfectly paired with the finest vintages. At Royal Malewane, guests can indulge in the best of both worlds – a luxury safari adventure and world-class dining.

Londolozi Private Game Reserve

Located in the heart of South Africa's Sabi Sands Game Reserve, Londolozi Private Game Reserve offers an unforgettable luxury safari experience. - Luxury accommodations and wildlife experiences: Londolozi offers a range of exquisite accommodation options, from elegant suites to private villas. Each is designed with comfort and style in mind, providing the perfect base for your safari adventure. With its prime location in the Sabi Sands, guests have the opportunity to witness the Big Five and other incredible wildlife up close and personal. - Exclusive safari packages and amenities: At Londolozi, guests can choose from a variety of safari packages tailored to meet their individual preferences. From guided game drives and walking safaris to birdwatching and photography workshops, there is something for everyone. The reserve also offers luxurious amenities such as spa treatments, gourmet dining, and private pools, ensuring a truly indulgent experience. - Unparalleled natural beauty: The reserve's stunning landscapes, with its lush vegetation and winding rivers, create a captivating backdrop for your safari adventure. Whether you're exploring the reserve on foot or from the comfort of a safari vehicle, you'll be immersed in the beauty of the African wilderness. Londolozi Private Game Reserve is the perfect destination for those seeking a luxurious and unforgettable safari experience, with its exceptional accommodations, exclusive packages, and breathtaking natural surroundings.

Ulusaba Private Game Reserve

Nestled amidst the majestic landscapes of South Africa's Sabi Sands Game Reserve, Ulusaba Private Game Reserve offers discerning travellers an unparalleled luxury safari experience. With its luxurious accommodations and breathtaking wildlife encounters, Ulusaba is a true haven for those seeking adventure and relaxation in equal measure. The reserve boasts two exclusive lodges, Rock Lodge and Safari Lodge, each offering a unique and luxurious setting. Rock Lodge perches high on a hilltop, providing panoramic views of the surrounding bushveld. Its beautifully designed rooms and suites are adorned with African-inspired decor, ensuring a comfortable and stylish stay. Safari Lodge, on the other hand, is nestled along the banks of a dry riverbed, offering a more intimate and secluded experience. While staying at Ulusaba, guests can embark on exhilarating game drives, allowing them to get up close and personal with Africa's iconic wildlife. From the Big Five to a wide array of bird species, the reserve promises unforgettable wildlife encounters at every turn. Whether lounging by the pool, indulging in a spa treatment, or venturing out on a guided bush walk, Ulusaba Private Game Reserve offers the ultimate luxury safari experience, where freedom and adventure intertwine seamlessly.

Lion Sands Game Reserve

Lion Sands Game Reserve offers travellers a unique and immersive luxury safari experience, combining pristine wilderness with world-class accommodations. Situated in the renowned Sabi Sand Game Reserve, this exclusive destination provides an ideal setting for wildlife encounters and unforgettable safari experiences. Here are three reasons why Lion Sands Game Reserve should be at the top of your luxury safari bucket list: - Unparalleled Wildlife Encounters: With its prime location in the heart of the African bush, Lion Sands offers guests the opportunity to spot the 'Big Five' - lion, leopard, elephant, rhino, and buffalo - in their natural habitat. Embark on thrilling game drives and guided walks, led by experienced rangers and trackers, to get up close with these magnificent creatures. - Luxurious Accommodations: Lion Sands boasts a range of luxurious lodges, each offering privacy, comfort, and breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. From elegant suites nestled in the trees to lavish villas with private plunge pools, every aspect of your stay is designed to provide the utmost relaxation and indulgence. - Authentic Safari Experiences: Beyond wildlife viewing, Lion Sands offers a variety of activities to immerse yourself in the African wilderness. Indulge in a romantic bush dinner under the stars, embark on a photographic safari to capture stunning images of wildlife, or unwind with a rejuvenating spa treatment overlooking the vast savannah. Lion Sands Game Reserve truly encapsulates the essence of a luxury safari, providing an unforgettable journey into the heart of untamed beauty and freedom.

Discover your ultimate luxury getaway here!

Frequently Asked Questions

Best Bush Lodges in Limpopo: Navigating Nature's Finest

Luxury Game Lodges in Limpopo: Where Opulence Meets Wilderness

Limpopo Lodges and Resorts: Your Gateway to Wild Luxury

Lodges in Limpopo With Activities: Beyond the Safari Adventure

Luxury Bush Lodges in Mpumalanga: Lavish Retreats Amidst Nature

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Guests that book accommodation in Hoedspruit become part of the family and their comfort and satisfaction throughout their stay is of priority. From our beautifully curated properties to our handcrafted amenities, we believe in the power of uniqueness and the joy of discovery.

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 Updated August 2023

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The Top 10 Safari Lodges to Visit in South Africa in 2024

Author: Lana Goodwin - 9 February 2023

Last Update: 30 April 2024

Part of the Travel To South Africa & Explore South Africa & African Safari Collection

Located in the stunning African wilderness, the best safari lodges to stay at in South Africa in 2024 embody ethical and sustainable luxury.

Eco-consciousness is the name of the game at these one-of-a-kind locations, where conservation efforts and unobtrusive construction blend with the natural environment to deliver an unspoiled experience of the African bush.

Embracing conservation, luxury, and unparalleled hospitality, they promise an unforgettable safari adventure, marrying the thrill of wildlife with the serenity of nature’s unspoiled beauty.

Here’s our collection of the top 10 safari lodges in South Africa 2024.

Londolozi Private Granite Suites

Londolozi Granite Suites, a 5-star luxury safari lodge in the Sabi Sands Game Reserve adjacent to Kruger National Park , is renowned for its unique blend of experiential luxury and natural beauty.

The Private Granite Suites, designed for elegance and comfort, offer a remarkable river setting with views of wandering elephant herds. These suites feature contemporary African design, integrating indoor and outdoor spaces with large doors and windows opening to the Sand River.

The double volume thatched central lodge includes lounge areas with comfortable seating, an extensive deck and dining area, outdoor boma and central swimming pool all with stunning river views.

Dulini Moya Lodge

Set in a peaceful riverine grove and embraced in a leafy canopy of giant Ebony trees, Dulini Moya’s six exquisite suites all offer private views of the Mabrak River and feature heated plunge pools, outdoor showers and shady decks. Interiors epitomise romance with canopies of billowing mosquito nets and beautiful bathrooms.

Fine wine and dining, enhanced by the culinary tradition of African flavours, complements the luxurious safari accommodation while personal butlers attend to guest’s every whim. Enjoy a workout in the well-equipped gym, relax in the guest lounge, dine under the ancient jackalberry tree, or steal away for a romantic private dinner at your suite.

Enjoy a workout in the well-equipped gym, relax in the guest lounge, dine under the ancient jackalberry tree, or steal away for a romantic private dinner at your suite.

Elephant Plains Game Lodge

Situated in the Sabi Sand Game Reserve , adjacent to the Kruger National Park, Elephant Plains Game Lodge offers comfortable, stylish and affordable luxury.

Attention to detail, warm hospitality, and personal service make Elephant Plains Game Lodge an accommodation guests keep returning to. While the Big Five and a host of other game roam this area, it’s also famous for its vast array of bird species.

Indulge in stargazing excursions, twice-daily guided safaris and ultra-immersive bush walks, between fine dining and sampling the lodge’s impressive wine cellar. Elephant Plains boasts an abnormally high concentration of leopard sightings, so if you’re aiming to spot this elusive big cat, look no further.

Kapama River Lodge

Kapama River Lodge, located in Kapama Private Game Reserve , offers a luxurious safari experience with 64 spacious bedrooms. Each room has an en-suite bathroom and terrace with views of the Big 5 game reserve.

Key features include a large rim-flow swimming pool, sun loungers, and a relaxation lounge with a bar. The lounge, boasting a double-volume thatch and a large double-sided fireplace, creates a cozy yet open atmosphere for guests.

Considered one of the finest safari spas in Africa, the spa situated at River Lodge has six sumptuous treatment rooms in a setting surrounded by stillness and sweeping bushveld. Arranged around a generous central lap pool the spa evokes a sense of calm.

Sabi Sabi Earth Lodge

One of the most eco-friendly safari lodges in South Africa, Sabi Sabi Earth Lodge in the Sabi Sabi Game Reserve was conceived to blend in with its natural environment from every angle. Get in touch with nature’s restoring tranquility while soaking up undisturbed views of the endless bushveld.

Notable features include a meditation garden, an underground wine cellar with 6000 bottles of rare wines, a spa that offers holistic treatments, and a one-of-a-kind outdoor boma. Local Shangaan trackers and highly experienced guides are on hand to take you on daily game drives for a wilderness experience you won’t soon forget.

Each of the suites at this luxury lodge features individually designed furniture, a private plunge pool, an enormous, ensuite, glass-fronted bathroom and both an indoor and outdoor shower.

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Singita Boulders Lodge

Located in the Sabi Sand Game Reserve next to the world-famous Kruger National Park, Singita Boulders Lodge takes its name from the Shangaan phrase ‘places of miracles’. Twelve luxurious glass-fronted suites blend into the boulder-strewn banks of the Sand River, each featuring a private deck, heated pool, fireplace, and outdoor shower.

Vast decks and walkways continue the immersion in nature, while various experiences and activities offer exclusive access to 45,000 acres in the Sabi Sand Game Reserve.

After a day out spotting elephants, lions, cheetahs, hippos, wild dogs, and other game, tuck into the lodge’s extensive collection of wines – it’s renowned for being one of Africa’s most prolific collectors.

Ulusaba Rock Lodge

As one of Sir Richard Branson’s collection of lodges within Ulusaba Private Game Reserve, Ulusaba Rock Lodge represents the peak of style and comfort.

Uninterrupted panoramic vistas over the African bushveld will have you shaking off your city blues in no time at all. Located on a hilltop, each suite is individually decorated and offers up sumptuous accommodation.

Whether you’re relaxing at the pool, getting an aerial perspective on a helicopter flip, or being guided through the bush be an expert tracker and guide, you’re never far from the tranquility of nature.

Rock Lodge features ten individually designed rooms and suites as well as a swimming pool, gymnasium, a wine cellar, Aroma Boma spa with panoramic views, a Bush Observatory perfect for stargazing and tennis courts.

Lion Sands River Lodge

The only private reserve sharing access to the perennial Sabie River with Kruger National Park, Lion Sands Game Reserve features stunning views and incredible wildlife viewing. Apart from the Big Five, the area is renowned for its record number of leopard sightings, a rare treat when it comes to this elusive big cat.

Safari lunches, boma dinners, and sundowners on the deck will have you blissfully slipping away into the sights, sounds, and scents of the African bush, while highly trained trackers and guides will share their knowledge on twice-daily game drives.

Do not miss the creative lab to print your personal photos onto high-quality canvas, and create a special keepsake or pass on as gifts.

Tintswalo Safari Lodge

Serene and delightfully secluded Tintswalo safari lodge is located next to Kruger National Park in the Manyeleti Game Reserve. Every suite is kitted out in 19th-century charm, with a private pool, all the creature comforts you could desire, and stunning views of the waterhole, guaranteeing spectacular wildlife sightings.

Featuring one of the lowest vehicle densities in the Greater Kruger, Tintswalo offers up the ultimate in safari exclusivity. Enjoy uninterrupted game viewing, guided by expert local trackers who know the environment like the back of their hands. Special trips include guided game walks, hot-air balloon rides, and stargazing excursions.

Tintswalo Safari suites all situated along a seasonal river bed among an ancient sycamore tree grove. The exquisitely appointed main lodge overlooks a waterhole frequented by a large herd of elephant and other big game.

Hoyo Hoyo Safari Lodge

Situated on the banks of the Mluwati River, Hoyo Hoyo safari lodge blends traditional Tsonga style with the ultimate in luxury. The lodge is steeped in modern day comfort and blends into the surrounding bush perfectly.

Hosting a maximum of 12 guests at a time, exclusivity is guaranteed, and hospitality is supreme. Indulge in spa treatments, tuck into three-course dinners and enjoy the privacy of your own deck.

The Mluwati concession was one of the first private concessions in the Kruger National Park and you won’t have to look far to see the benefits of its conservation efforts. Apart from the Big Five, Hoyo Hoyo boasts some 500 bird species and you’ll be able to see all of them on a guided walking safari .

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The Farmstead

With ever-present game around the lodge and tastefully designed interiors, the Farmstead is one of the most unique luxury safari homes in of all of South Africa. With light oak, original art and local craftsmanship, the design of the villas relish in a bygone era of nature set in the slow rhythm of African time.

One of the most personalized family safari retreats in all of South Africa set in a year round game area with perfect exclusivity.

Private Family safari

Private guided game drives and walking safaris in one of the established game viewing areas in South Africa; 32,000-acre Thornybush reserve.

The Farmhouse offers private services of a full house staff and includes a dedicated gourmet chef, private butler, house staff, and a manager to oversee all customized schedules. The Farmhouse also comes with your own private guide, a master tracker and private landcruiser.

• All Meals & Drinks inclusive of stay
• Opulent bedrooms with wilderness views
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The most dramatic Gorilla trek in Africa

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South African ZAR 300* *daily per person

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Luxury safari accommodation at Farmstead Game drives with Professional guides All meals included with local drinks + wine Traditional afternoon safari tea Complimentary laundry service Current applicable government taxes + VAT

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Visit Shamwari Private Game Reserve for a 5-Star Luxury Safari Experience In South Africa

O f all the experiences people seek when visiting South Africa , going on safari easily ranks at the top of the list. While a one-day safari may be best for shorter trips, the best way to enjoy the full safari experience is during an overnight stay. There are several game reserves to choose from, but Shamwari Private Game Reserve is by far the ultimate luxury choice.

In Eastern Cape near South Africa’s sixth largest city, Gqeberha, Shamwari has operated as a game reserve since 1992. Nearly 62,000 acres of land are available for the many species of animals, birds, flora and fauna that once called the land home.

7 Luxury Lodge Experiences To Choose From

Shamwari offers guests a choice of seven luxury lodges, each with its own distinct character and appeal. The options range from intimate seclusion to family-friendly accommodations. For more adventurous guests, there is also a tented Explorer Camp, set around a koppie, deep in the bush.

Long Lee Manor is a redesigned lodge with spacious high-end luxury suites, an infinity pool and several dining spaces on the property. Riverdene is the top pick for family-friendly safari stays with a kids on Safari program available. Bayethe, Eagles Crag and Sindile are all fitting for couples, solo or friends getaways, each offering a different luxury outdoor experience. Sarili Private Lodge, a five-bedroom accommodation, is the premium luxury pick for special occasions with small groups of family and friends.

The Luxury Is In The Details

From your greeting upon arrival to your suite’s amenities, no expense is spared in this 5-star stay. Warm hand towels and savory warm shooters await you and your guests as you step into your lodge of choice. The staff at Shamwari ensures you don’t have to lift a finger.

Game drives are also designed for maximum comfort. Early morning game drives can be chilly depending on the time of year, but the team has plenty of accessories to make sure you stay warm. Heated water bottle pouches and blankets for each guest are provided by your game ranger. Spotting the Big 5 just got a lot fancier. Whether you want morning coffee in the bush or a proper sundowner following an afternoon game drive, the Shamwari team can oblige your request.

Each lodge also has a spa for wellness services with the exception of Riverdene and Sarili. Guests in all lodges have access to in-room treatments or the option to indulge in self-care services at Long Lee Manor Spa.

The best part of this luxury safari experience is the many perks that come inclusive with your stay. All meals including the famed Boma Dinner and locally selected beverages are a part of your experience. With activities, such as game drives and bush walks, included, there’s plenty to do on any given day at the reserve. You can also enjoy a complimentary visit to the wildlife rehabilitation center or Big Cat Sanctuary, Born Free.

Boma Dinners: The Culinary Highlight of Shamwari

Boma dinners are one of the best dining experiences you’ll have during your visit to Shamwari. Every third night, with favorable weather conditions, lodge guests gather for dinner under the African night sky. Around a fire pit surrounded by lanterns, the Boma dinner is South Africa’s braai experience. Known as a South African BBQ, a braai entails grilling food over hot coals and is the perfect way to end a day of exciting game drives.

Enjoy your preferred evening cocktail or beverage as the Shamwari culinary team serves a multi-course menu of fresh, unique dishes. From starters to dessert, you’ll explore local flavors in the cozy Boma setting as the fire crackles in the background, an undoubtedly dreamy safari night.

Resorting Wildlife Native To The Area

Once an area abundant in wildlife, the migration of man resulted in the killing of most of the original wildlife in the area. Shamwari is on a mission to restore the wildlife native to this region, bringing back Cape vultures and spotted hyenas.

Anti-poaching teams patrol the reserve to secure the land and more importantly the safety of animals that call its borders home. Ultimately, Shamwari aims to ensure its wildlife population has sufficient space, food and water to thrive while managing the balance between predator and prey species.

Unlike some private reserves, Shamwari maintains its standard of not interfering with the natural order of the plants and animals on the property. That means you’ll never go off-roading in the pursuit of an animal spotting which is good news for the animals and the flourishing flora and fauna within their habitat.

A Safe Haven For At-Risk Wildlife

Aside from the luxury amenities and services available upon request, Shamwari is actively working as a safe haven for rescued and injured animals of varying needs. Two sections of the property house its rehabilitation and sanctuary facilities. Born Free Big Cat Sanctuaries is where you can find animals that should have been born in the wild, but because they weren’t, can never be released into the wild. Animals from circus entertainment, for example, may end up calling Born Free home one day.

Shamwari Wildlife Rehabilitation Center, on the other hand, provides aid to animals from the wild who need assistance getting back on their feet. The rehab center helps to rehabilitate and care for sick, injured, abandoned or orphaned animals under the care of a professional veterinary team. Once these animals have been nursed back to health, they are released back into their natural habitat.

Shamwari is as much wildlife conversation as it is a luxury vacation, making it a feel-good option for safari experiences in South Africa. Every detail of this private safari is more than a cut above anything you’ll find at larger national parks. You can not only avoid the crowds of other reserves, but also dine and explore the outdoors with premium amenities only a request away.

Tswalu, South Africa: the ultimate destination for a luxury safari

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Motse accommodation at Tswalu private reserve in South Africa. Photo / Supplied

At Tswalu in South Africa , diamond tycoon Jonathan Oppenheimer has created the kind of luxury safari that most of us can only dream about, writes Catherine McGregor

It was when the mountains caught fire that we started to worry. A summer storm had rolled in over the Korannaberg ranges and lightning was slashing through the vast desert skies, setting the hillside alight before quickly being extinguished by the torrential rain. On the verandah, the clink of ice in our pre-dinner cocktails was being drowned out by the roar of thunder. It was time to go inside.

The summer rains bring life to the Kalahari Desert, the arid sandy savanna that straddles the border of Botswana, Namibia and South Africa. At Tswalu Kalahari reserve in South Africa the rain can transform the parched land literally overnight. The landscape, once barren, is suddenly carpeted by thick tufted grass, spiky gemsbok cucumbers and tiny yellow dubbeltjie (little devil) flowers. For visitors, the odd lightning strike is a small price to pay for such abundance.

READ MORE: The luxury safari that’s better than winning Lotto

Located on the southern edge of the Kalahari, not far from the Botswana border, Tswalu is a truly unique safari experience. The property has been owned since 1999 by the billionaire Oppenheimer family, who once controlled the majority of South Africa’s diamond industry through their controlling stake in De Beers and now use their immense wealth to support their conservation and philanthropic efforts. Tswalu is not only South Africa’s largest private wildlife reserve, but arguably its most remote, at around 10 hours’ drive from either Cape Town or Johannesburg. Isolated and ultra exclusive, Tswalu just might be the ultimate destination safari.

The distance by road doesn’t bother most guests, since hardly any of them drive. Tswalu has its own private airport and offers a direct charter air service from both Johannesburg or Cape Town. For Tswalu’s mega wealthy clientele, flying in is a no-brainer. That airstrip is a game-changer, says Nigel Pace, Tswalu’s head of hospitality. “Yes, we’re really remote – but in terms of access, we’re actually easier to get to than places like Kruger or Sabi Sands.”

After touchdown, guests are collected by their drivers and depart for one of three luxury camps dotted across the vast reserve. Motse, Tswalu’s original camp, features nine guest suites, or legae (“home” in the local Setswana language) and has the feel of a relaxed-chic boutique hotel. The recently opened Loapi is a collection of six extraordinarily beautiful tented camps , each with a dedicated homathi (house manager) and chef. All six Loapi residences are located at least 100m from each other, with no communal or shared guest areas or services, allowing for an incredibly private stay.

My stay was at Tarkuni, an exclusive-use homestead designed for multi-generational families or parties of friends. Tarkuni accommodates up to 10 guests in five suites, each with their own private verandah, arranged around a living area featuring a spectacular double-height fireplace. Upstairs is a spa treatment suite and games room; out the front is a swimming pool and waterhole where baboons and antelope regularly come to drink.

With a total maximum of 40 guests in an area almost twice the size of urban Auckland , it’s hardly surprising that the word “private” comes up so much at Tswalu. If you’re staying at Loapi and Tarkuni, you can quite easily avoid ever seeing another soul, save for your own small team of staff. On top of that, every booking guarantees you a private 4×4 safari vehicle, including a dedicated guide and tracker, for the duration of your stay. More than anything, it’s this that puts Tswalu a cut above most other luxury safari experiences.

Having your own vehicle doesn’t only give you privacy – it makes each game drive a totally personalised experience. Want to focus on tracking lesser-known sub-species like the desert black rhino? No problem. Want to stay out all day? Can do. Tswalu’s guides and trackers know the reserve like the back of their hands, and are trained to create for you the most memorable safari experience possible. As your stay continues, your priorities can change, and the value of a private vehicle only increases. With your own vehicle, you’ll never find yourself stuck with day-one newbies who need the safari basics explained or want to stop to photograph every passing kudu – although if that’s something you still want to do, that’s absolutely okay too.

A Tswalu safari is as unique as the land itself. The aridity of the Kalahari means you won’t see any elephants or hippos here, and the sheer size of the reserve can sometimes make spotting animals a challenge. Don’t arrive expecting a Kruger-style wildlife buffet, but that doesn’t mean you won’t see plenty of amazing sights, like a lioness and her cubs contentedly chowing down on a zebra carcass at the edge of a water hole. For 10 minutes we sat quietly in our vehicle, snapping photos from just a few metres away, as the desert sun slowly set behind the horizon.

While it isn’t the place to spot the Big 5 around every corner, Tswalu boasts a remarkable number of species that are rarely seen elsewhere. Along with more common species like oryx, wildebeest, cheetah, buffalo, zebra and giraffe, the reserve is a wonderful place to see rare and endangered species including the Kalahari black-maned lion, desert black rhino and African wild dog. Tswalu offers a lucky few the chance to see the Temmick’s pangolin, one of the world’s most elusive mammals; if you get the chance to accompany the resident pangolin scientists on a nocturnal research outing, grab it.

Tswalu is also home to multiple colonies of meerkats, who have become used to human visitors through a painstaking habituating process. These charmingly gregarious creatures are best spotted in the early morning as they leave their burrows for the day, or at dusk, when they return. Like all wild creatures, however, no viewing is ever guaranteed. Despite the best efforts of Tswalu’s tracking team, we sadly didn’t see any meerkats on our visit. It’s a tribute to the power of the Kalahari landscape that our sunrise walk to the burrows, and the Jeep-side breakfast afterwards – magicked seemingly out of thin air by our guide – remains one of my favourite memories of our stay.

Along with preserving wildlife, making memories is what Tswalu is all about. On our drive back to the homestead, our guide told us that bush dining is one of the experiences guests request most often – whether that means a fully hosted braai with butler service and a mobile kitchen for a group, or a secluded gourmet picnic for two (with a staff vehicle positioned nearby, just in case). Other once-in-a-lifetime experiences include a night under the stars in one of Tswalu’s “star beds”, private camps whose level of luxury puts most other glamp-outs to shame.

There’s one special Tswalu experience that towers above all others, and that’s dinner at Klein Jan, the incredible on-site restaurant founded by Michelin-starred South African chef Jan Hendrik van der Westhuizen. It’s the sort of dining experience that relies in part on the element of surprise – so if eating here is on your bucket list, look away now. The magic begins when you pull up outside what appeared to be a ramshackle farmhouse in the middle of nowhere. This is actually the Klein Jan entrance building, where we sat on the stoep, or verandah, and drank cocktails as the thunderstorm rolled in.

We were guided through the farmhouse and into a door on the side of what looked like a disused water tank. Suddenly we were descending a staircase wrapped around a waterfall, then led through more jewel-box spaces and into a spectacular glass-walled dining room. While Klein Jan is open to non-guests for lunch – people fly in and out just to spend a few hours eating here – dinner is for Tswalu guests only, and is included with every two-night stay. The tasting menu at Klein Jan is a journey through both South African culinary history and the natural world of the Kalahari, utilising such unfamiliar ingredients (at least to me) as fever berry, xigugu (a traditional corn and peanut paste), kaiings (crackling) and boerbok (South African goat). As we ate, lightning carved through the sky, the landscape fleetingly illuminated before being plunged back into the inky black darkness of a desert night.

The next morning dawned clear and bright, the previous evening’s torrential rain already absorbed by the thirsty red sand. For our last experience, we were going horse riding – a prospect that initially had me slightly anxious, but which, I was assured, was perfectly safe in this part of the reserve. After the exhilaration of the previous few days, a quiet hour on horseback was the ideal end to our stay. With no engine noise or whirr of camera shutters, we could hear the Kalahari’s birds bursting into song in celebration of the rain. Above, the desert sky was enormous and blue; around us, the ochre sand was stippled with summer green. At our dismounting site, the riding guides removed our horses’ saddles and bridles. As we climbed into our Jeep for the last time, the horses set off at a gallop, back across the savannah and towards home.

For more things to see and do in South Africa, see southafrica.net

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